Marking integrated circuit package with encoded image for scanning to obtain manufacturing parameters

ABSTRACT

A package for an integrated circuit is marked with an encoded image (e.g., a two-dimensional barcode). The encoded image is scanned by a scanner to obtain manufacturing parameters. In one approach, a method includes: fabricating, in a manufacturing facility, a physical product using a manufacturing process, where the physical product is fabricated according to specifications, and the manufacturing process includes manufacturing steps performed in the manufacturing facility; marking the physical product with an encoded image, where the encoded image encodes parameters that include the specifications; and transporting the physical product to a storage facility, where the storage facility includes a scanner configured to scan the encoded image to obtain the parameters.

FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY

At least some embodiments disclosed herein relate to scanning of encoded images in general and more particularly, but not limited to marking a package for an integrated circuit with an encoded image for scanning to obtain manufacturing parameters.

BACKGROUND

A Quick Response Code is a type of barcode (sometimes referred to as a QR Code barcode, or simply a QR code). In some cases, a QR code is a machine-readable optical label that contains information about a physical item to which the QR code is attached. The QR code can include, for example, data for a locator, an identifier, or a tracker that points to a website or application. A QR code can, for example, use various standardized encoding modes to store data. These can include numeric and alphanumeric modes.

In some cases, a QR code contains black squares arranged in a two-dimensional square grid on a white background. The QR code can be read by an imaging device such as a camera, and processed using error correction until the image can be interpreted. Several standards exist that cover the encoding of data as QR codes (e.g., ISO/IEC 18004:2015).

In some cases, a smart phone can be used as a QR code scanner. The smart phone can convert the QR code to useful data of some type, such as a standard URL for a website. In one example, a user with a camera phone equipped with a reader application can scan an image of a QR code to display text, contact information, connect to a wireless network, or open a webpage in a browser on the phone.

A QR code can also be linked to a location to track where a code has been scanned. In one example, an application that scans the QR code can retrieve geo-information by using GPS, etc.

In some cases, QR codes are used with mobile device operating systems. The mobile device can support URL redirection, which allows QR codes to send metadata to an existing application on the device.

A QR code differs from older, one-dimensional barcodes designed to be mechanically scanned by a narrow beam of light. A QR code is detected, for example, by a two-dimensional digital image sensor, and then digitally analyzed by a programmable processor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like references indicate similar elements.

FIG. 1 shows an example computing system for scanning encoded images on physical objects to determine parameters for a manufacturing process, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows an example of the manufacturing process of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows an example label having a QR code on the label, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 4 shows an example Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) document having a QR code on the document, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 5 shows an example set of parameter types and corresponding parameter values that can be encoded in a QR code, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 6 shows an example computing system for scanning one or more physical objects to determine parameters for a manufacturing process, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7 shows an example computing system in which a mobile device scans a physical object to determine parameters for manufacturing process, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 8 shows a block diagram of a computing device (e.g., a supplier server, or a customer server), which can be used in various embodiments.

FIG. 9 shows a block diagram of a computing device (e.g., a mobile device of a user, or a user terminal), according to one embodiment.

FIG. 10 shows a method for scanning encoded images on physical objects to determine parameters for a manufacturing process, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 11 shows a method for using encoded images on physical objects to trace specifications for a manufacturing process, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an autonomous vehicle including one or more various components and/or subsystems, each of which can be updated in various embodiments to configure the vehicle and/or perform other actions associated with the vehicle.

FIG. 13 shows an example computing system for using data obtained from scanning an encoded image to generate rules that govern physical transport and/or other logistics associated with the handling and/or movement of physical objects, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 14 shows a method for controlling transport of physical objects based on scanning of encoded images, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 15 shows an example computing system for updating a materials database using a tracking server based on data obtained from scanning an encoded image, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 16 shows a method for updating a materials database based on parameters obtained from scanning an encoded image on a physical object, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 17 shows an example computing system for generating a communication that includes life cycle data based on one or more parameters obtained from scanning an encoded image, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 18 shows a method for updating product life cycle data in a database based on scanning of encoded images, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 19 shows an example computing system for accessing a manufacturing database based on scanning of an encoded image, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 20 shows an example of a manufacturing process that uses various manufacturing machines at each of several manufacturing steps, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 21 shows a method for structured access to a server to obtain data based on scanning of an encoded image, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 22 shows an example computing system for marking a physical product with an encoded image after manufacturing the product in a manufacturing facility, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 23 shows a method for marking a product (e.g., a package for an integrated circuit) with an encoded image (e.g., a QR code) for scanning (e.g., when the product is received at a customer facility) to obtain manufacturing parameters, according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

At least some embodiments herein relate to scanning encoded images (e.g., QR codes) on physical objects (e.g., physical components, printed documents, and/or labels) to determine and/or evaluate parameters for a manufacturing process (e.g., silicon wafer processing parameters for making a memory device for an automobile).

Other embodiments relate to using encoded images on physical objects to trace specifications for a manufacturing process. In one embodiment, specifications for a product (e.g., a non-volatile memory device) made by a manufacturing process are traced by a unified QR code printed on various paper documents that are exchanged among multiple parties involved in the manufacturing process. In one example, the paper document is a label that is applied to a document or other physical object. In one example, the paper document is a printed production part approval process (PPAP) or other document as described below. In other embodiments, the printed document can be made of other materials such as plastic, plastic-laminated paper, etc. In one example, the parties are a memory device supplier and a vehicle manufacturer that integrates the memory into an autonomous vehicle (e.g., the autonomous vehicle of FIG. 12). Various embodiments regarding using encoded images on physical objects to trace specifications for a manufacturing process are described in the section below titled “Using Encoded Images to Trace Specifications for a Manufacturing Process”.

Yet other embodiments relate to controlling transport of physical objects based on scanning of encoded images. In one embodiment, a method includes: scanning a first encoded image on a physical object to obtain first parameters including specifications for a product to be made by a manufacturing process; generating, using the first parameters, one or more manufacturer rules; storing, in a database, the manufacturer rules; determining, based on querying the database, whether the product conforms to the manufacturer rules; and in response to determining that the product conforms to the manufacturer rules, transporting and/or performing another action associated with the product. In one example, the manufacturer rules are customer containment rules (CCRs), which govern the particular versions of a product that are shipped (or that are eligible and/or authorized for shipping) to an identified customer. In one example, the manufacturer rules determine the logistical handling of product within a production facility (e.g., a manufacturing facility, or a distribution facility that receives manufactured product being transported to a customer facility). In one example, the action associated with the product is control of one or more manufacturing steps (e.g., control of a lithography manufacturing step based on feedback data provided from a testing step that follows the lithography). Various embodiments regarding controlling transport of, and/or other aspects of manufacturing for, physical objects based on scanning of encoded images are described in the section below titled “Controlling Transport Based on Scanning of Encoded Images”.

Additional embodiments relate to updating a database based on scanning of encoded images. In one example, the database is a materials database. In one example, a bill of materials (BOM) is stored in the database and lists all components needed to make a product. The bill of materials is generated and/or updated based on parameters obtained from scanning of one or more encoded images that are on a physical object, such as a label, document, component used to make a product, etc. In one embodiment, a method includes scanning an encoded image on a physical object to obtain parameters associated with a product made using a manufacturing process; storing, by a first computing device in a database and based on the obtained parameters, first data regarding materials used in the manufacturing process to make the product, wherein the materials include a first material provided by a supplier; sending, based on the stored first data, a communication to a second computing device of the supplier requesting second data regarding the first material; receiving, by the first computing device over a network, a communication including the second data; in response to receiving the communication, updating the stored first data regarding the first material to provide third data stored in the database; tracking the manufacture of the product, including tracking usage of the first material in the manufacturing process; and updating, based on tracking the usage of the first material, the stored third data. Various embodiments regarding updating a database based on scanning of encoded images are described in the section below titled “Updating a Materials Database Based on Scanning of Encoded Images”.

Other embodiments relate to updating product life cycle data that is stored in a database based on scanning of encoded images (e.g., QR codes). In one embodiment, an End-of-Life (EOL) notification is automatically generated based on scanning QR codes that are printed on paper documents of negotiated manufacturing parameters (e.g., specifications for making a product as set forth in a PPAP document and a corresponding customer-approved PSW document, as described below). In one example, the EOL notification is an electronic communication sent by a memory device supplier to a vehicle manufacturer. Various embodiments regarding updating product life cycle data in a database based on scanning of encoded images are described in the section below titled “Updating Product Life Cycle Data Based on Scanning of Encoded Images”.

Other embodiments relate to structured access to a server or other computing device to obtain data based on scanning of encoded images (e.g., QR codes). In one embodiment, a computer server provides structured access to information related to paper documents exchanged among parties in a manufacturing process via at least in part QR codes printed on the papers. In one example, the QR codes are printed on paper documents of negotiated manufacturing parameters (e.g., specifications for making a product as set forth in a PPAP document and a corresponding customer-approved PSW document, as described below). In one example, one or more manufacturing machines are configured by sending electronic communications that include configuration data (e.g., firmware updates, software updates, and/or new software) for installing on, applying to, and/or updating the machines. In one example, the configuration data includes data obtained from the server based on a query using parameters obtained from scanning an encoded image on a physical object (e.g., a PPAP document, a component or other material, and/or the product itself at any of various stages of intermediate steps of manufacture). Various embodiments regarding structured access to a server or other computing device to obtain data based on scanning of encoded images are described in the section below titled “Structured Server Access Based on Scanning of Encoded Images”.

Other embodiments relate to marking a physical product (e.g., a packaged integrated circuit) with an encoded image (e.g., a QR code) for scanning to obtain manufacturing parameters. In one embodiment, the QR code is printed on a flat surface of the package. In one example, the QR code is formed on the flat surface using laser marking. In one example, the QR code encodes specifications used for fabricating the integrated circuit and/or the package. In one example, the QR code is scanned at a customer facility after receiving the product from a supplier (e.g., a memory device supplier). Various embodiments regarding marking a package for an integrated circuit with an encoded image for scanning to obtain manufacturing parameters are described in the section below titled “Marking Package with Encoded Image for Scanning”.

A Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) is, for example, used in an automotive industry production chain to ensure the approval of component suppliers and their production processes. For example, the PPAP was created and adopted by the three large American companies in the automotive industry (Chrysler, Ford and General Motors). The first version of the PPAP was published in February 1993, and is in the context of the IATF standard 16949:2016.

When making a product such as a memory device for an automobile, various aspects of the product are conventionally negotiated/communicated among suppliers, customers/buyers, and/or subcontractors through the exchange of decks of printed papers. For example, a supplier may produce memory chips for automobile manufacturing companies as customers/buyers. Such printed papers can include one or more of the following:

-   -   PPAP (Production Part Approval Process): used by a supplier to         describe various technical and logistical aspects of a version         of the product to be provided by the supplier (e.g., the process         to make a chip, the process to test the chip, the design         parameters of the chip, and/or materials used in the chip).     -   PSW (Part Submission Warrant): a warrant of the supplier         provided for samples of the product.     -   PCN (Product Change Notification): a proposed change made by         supplier to PPAP.     -   EOL (End-of-Life): a notification provided by supplier to         customer/buyer.     -   CCR (Customer Containment Rules): which versions of products can         be shipped to which customers.     -   BOM (Build of Material, or Bill of Material): a documentation         identifying the components of a version of a product.

Conventionally, a supplier makes a batch of samples of a product that is described/documented using a PPAP, which includes a warrant in the form of PSW. The customer/buyer inspects/tests the samples. If the sample/PPAP is not accepted, the supplier may make improved samples with an updated PPAP. If the buyer accepts to buy a version of samples, the buyer signs off its associated PSW and returns the signed PSW back to the supplier as approval. The approved PSW and its associated PPAP will be used by the supplier to organize the manufacture/production of the product and the shipping of the product to the buyer. The quality of the product is safe-guarded (e.g., guaranteed to a degree) by the specifications set forth in approved PPAP/PSW, and the samples that have been produced according to the approved PPAP/PSW and inspected by the buyer for the approval given in the PSW.

If the supplier makes a change to an approved PPAP, the supplier has to send a PCN to the buyer for approval. Once PCN is approved, a set of a sample and PPAP may be generated for an approved PSW from the buyer.

An EOL is used by the supplier to inform the buyer of the end of life of a specific product. A CCR is used by the supplier to organize the shipping of different versions of products to different customers. A BOM is used by the supplier to coordinate with subcontractors to organize the production of the product.

Since the contents of the PPAP, PSW, PCN, EOL, CCR and BOM are typically significantly different from product to product, the contents are typically printed on paper and processed by a human through reading and human intelligence. This can cause various problems including increased manufacturing errors when making memory or other devices (e.g., due to human error in reading wafer processing or device testing conditions), time-consuming manual review of paper documents, and inefficiency when coordinating processing operations, and/or logistics between a supplier and its customers, subcontractors, and/or distributors.

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a technological solution to one or more of the above technical problems. In some embodiments, QR codes can be used to improve the usage of PPAP, PSW, PCN, EOL, CCR and/or BOM. In general, a QR code can be used to encode at least some of the information that are printed in the papers. Samples of such information to be encoded in QR code may include identifiers (e.g., of materials and entities), restrictions, parameters, measurements, values, sizes, and/or manufacturing facility (e.g., plant) locations. Samples of information typically not suitable for being encoded in a QR code, and thus requiring reading and handling by a human, include drawings and diagrams.

In one example, a QR code is a two-dimensional barcode (or 2D code) that is a matrix, composed of black modules arranged within a white pattern having a square shape. The matrix of the QR code is used to store information, and the QR code is sometimes intended to be read by a mobile device (e.g., by an application executing on a smartphone and using a camera of the smartphone). In one example, up to 7,089 numeric or 4,296 alphanumeric characters can be contained in the encoded image (e.g., a single cryptogram) of the QR code. The matrix format is, for example, 29×29 squares and contains 48 alphanumeric characters.

In one embodiment, once the information is encoded using a QR code, at least some processing of PPAP and/or other documents can be automated through computer processing. For example, a mobile phone with an application (sometimes referred to as simply an “app”) can be used to scan the QR code to extract the information encoded therein. For example, two QR codes from two PPAPs can be compared by the mobile app to show the differences and common aspects. Two QR codes from two documents can be compared by the mobile app to determine whether the two documents are a match for the development of a product (e.g., a PPAP and a corresponding PCN).

In one embodiment, the mobile app can be connected to a server to further link the QR code/PPAP to other information stored in a server (e.g., drawings and diagrams). For example, each PPAP can have a unique version identifier that is encoded in the QR code. Thus, the QR code of a PPAP can be used to look up the identification of samples. Similarly, the same QR code of the PPAP can be printed on the PSW. Thus, when a PSW is received, the QR code can be scanned to correlate it with the PPAP.

In one embodiment, based on the information encoded in the QR code printed on PSW (and/or associated information pre-linked to the QR code/PPAP), a computer system can automate at least part of the process of inserting the conditions of CCR. In general, a same batch of products may meet the requirements of several buyers. A PPAP/PSW defines the requirements of a customer. A QR code can be initially added as an input to CCR. The computer system can be programmed to automatically determine whether the batch of the products meets the requirements of the PPAP/PSW (at least in part).

Similarly, a QR code of PPAP can be entered as part of BOM. This allow the automatic identification of some of the component supplier relations.

The QR code having the information of PPAP can also be printed on other documents to drive production, such as documentations shipped with products to buyers, orders to subcontractors, and components from subcontractors.

In one embodiment, each PPAP associated with a batch of samples has a single QR code. The QR code has a set of parameters unique to the samples. Any subsequent documents related to the samples is provided with the same QR code, such that the information can be accessed using a scanner (e.g., by a mobile app using a camera or other lens) without a need to connect to a server. However, a server can be used to provide additional information about the PPAP. The access to the additional information may be privileged (e.g., require authentication of a device requesting the access).

In some instances, a QR code may include a descriptive message specific to a situation (e.g., data observed and/or collected at one or more steps of a manufacturing process when making a sample). For example, the descriptive message may indicate the reason for which the PPAP is generated (e.g., due to a PCN, a customer letter/request, etc.).

In one embodiment, a computer application is executing on a mobile device. A scanner of the mobile device is used to scan one or more QR codes on paper or other printed documents (e.g., PPAP, PSW, and/or PCN on paper, label, etc.). Based on scanning the QR codes and comparing parameters encoded in the QR codes, parameters of a manufacturing process can be negotiated, and manufacturing of a physical product authorized.

In one embodiment, a PPAP is used to determine whether all requirements, both design and product, are met, and/or whether a supplier's manufacturing process is capable of maintaining these requirements in a series production. By using a QR code as described herein, marking for traceability of specific customer requirements between data information (e.g., parameters and values) can be ensured. The QR code can support a faster data comparison, and/or add a major synthesis to increase attention in the management of data shared by a supplier with automotive customers.

In light of the above, using the QR code on documents can provide various advantages. For example, the traceability of the product to documents (e.g., PPAP document) can be improved. In other examples, the extraction parameters and corresponding values can be used in a table format. Also, incoming inspection can be improved. In addition, the introduction of the QR code in a document (PPAP) and/or on another physical object should have minimal cost. Further, the traceability of the documents to products can be improved. In some cases, delivery of product to customers can be more rapid due to improved handling and/or logistics efficiencies. Also, traceability of batch stock to link to PPAP(s) can be improved.

FIG. 1 shows an example computing system for scanning encoded images 104, 108 on physical objects 102, 106 to determine parameters for a manufacturing process 122, according to one embodiment. In FIG. 1, a computing device 112 can be used to access, communicate with, and/or interact with manufacturing facility server 116, a distribution facility server 130, and/or customer facility server 132 over a communication network 121 (e.g., the Internet, a wide area network, a local network, or other wired or wireless communications network). The access, communication, or interaction can relate to a product (e.g., a memory device for an automobile) that is being manufactured using manufacturing process 122. In some cases, the product is a sample to be made and approved by a customer prior to volume manufacture of a commercial product.

Computing device 112 is coupled to a scanner 110 used to scan encoded images. Specifically, scanner 110 can be used to scan encoded image 104 on physical object 102, and/or to scan encoded image 108 on physical object 106. Encoded images 104 and 108 are scanned to determine parameters associated with the manufacturing process 122. In some cases, the determined parameters are compared using computer device 112. In some embodiments, physical object 102 and physical object 106 include computing devices that can communicate, for example, using a wireless connection.

The parameters determined from encoded images 104, 108 relate to the product to be made using manufacturing process 122. In one example, physical object 102 is a PPAP document, and physical object 106 is a PSW document or a PCN document. For example, the PCN document may specify a change in one or more materials used to build the product. Comparison of the parameters obtained from scanning the encoded images 104, 108 can be used to determine that the PPAP document corresponds to the PCN document so that the change in the material is properly implemented when manufacturing the product in a manufacturing facility that includes manufacturing facility server 116.

In one example, the customer approves the change in the material by providing the PSW document to a supplier after reviewing the PCN document. The PSW document can include an encoded image (not shown) that is scanned by scanner 110 and determined by computing device 112 to correspond to the PPAP document. In addition, computing device 112 can determine from the encoded image of the PSW document that manufacture of the product is authorized by the customer. Computing device 112 can communicate this authorization to manufacturing facility server 116. Further, server 116 can update manufacturing data 114 to reflect the change in the material to be used in manufacturing process 122. In one example, the change of material corresponds to material incorporated into the product by manufacturing machine 118 during manufacture.

In one embodiment, physical object 102 is a PPAP document that corresponds to specifications 124 used to make the product in manufacturing process 122. In one example, the product made is physical product 126. An encoded image 128 can be attached to, integrated with, and/or affixed to physical product 126. The encoded image 128 corresponds to specifications 124. In one example, the encoded image 128 encodes parameters related to processing conditions observed during manufacture on manufacturing machine 118. In another example, a scanner 120 coupled to manufacturing machine 118 scans encoded image 128 to obtain parameters related to the operation of manufacturing machine 118 when making physical product 126. In one example, the obtained parameters control a chemical or other processing condition associated with manufacturing machine 118. In another example, the obtained parameters control a testing process used after manufacturing physical product 126.

In one embodiment, physical product 126 is shipped to a distribution facility having distribution facility server 130. Server 130 scans the encoded image 128 to obtain parameters used to handle logistics for the physical product 126. For example, the obtained parameters can be used to determine how to ship or otherwise provide the physical product 126 to a customer facility having customer facility server 132. In one example, distribution facility server 130 can transmit a communication to customer facility server 132 based on the parameters obtained from scanning encoded image 128. In another example, server 130 can additionally and/or alternatively transmit a communication to computer device 112 regarding data obtained from scanning of encoded image 128.

In one embodiment, physical object 102 is a label affixed to physical product 126 or is a label affixed to a container that holds physical product 126. Computing device 112 can use scanner 110 to scan encoded image 104 during manufacture of product 126.

In another embodiment, physical object 102 is manufacturing machine 118.

Encoded image 104 can be scanned during manufacture of product 126. In one example, operation of manufacturing machine 118 can be adjusted or otherwise controlled based on parameters obtained from this scanning.

In one embodiment, computing device 112 prepares a report based on scanning by scanner 110 of encoded images 104 and 108. The report indicates differences between manufacturing requirements that are determined from this scanning. Computing device 112 sends the report over communication network 121 to manufacturing facility server 116 and/or customer facility server 132.

In one embodiment, encoded image 104 includes an identifier. Computing device 112 uses the identifier to look up data regarding physical product 126. For example, the looked up data can be stored as manufacturing data 114.

In one embodiment, encoded image 104 is a QR code. A mobile phone (e.g., computing device 112 can be a mobile phone having scanner 110) with an app is used to scan the QR code to extract the information encoded therein. Two QR codes from two PPAPs can be compared by the mobile app to show the differences and common aspects. Two QR codes from two documents can be compared by the mobile app to determine whether the two documents (e.g., a PPAP and a corresponding PCN) are a match for the development of a product (e.g., product 126). The mobile app can be connected to a server to further link the QR code/PPAP to other information stored in a server (e.g., drawings and diagrams stored in manufacturing data 114). For example, each PPAP can have a unique version identifier that is encoded in the QR code. Thus, the QR code of a PPAP can be used to look up the identification of samples (e.g., samples made per specifications 124 using manufacturing process 122). The QR code has a set of parameters unique to the samples. Any subsequent documents related to the samples can be provided with the same QR code, such that the information can be accessed using a scanner without a need to connect to a server. However, in some cases, a server can be used to provide additional information about the PPAP. The access to the additional information may be privileged (e.g., require authorization and/or authentication). In some instances, a QR code may include a descriptive message specific to a situation associated with manufacturing process 122 and/or customer requirements prior to manufacture.

In one embodiment, physical product 126 is a silicon wafer. Each silicon wafer that is processed using manufacturing process 122 receives a unique laser scribe (e.g., for product traceability). Encoded image 128, and/or another encoded image, includes a parameter corresponding to this laser scribe.

FIG. 2 shows an example of the manufacturing process 122 of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment. Manufacturing process 122 includes manufacturing steps performed in a manufacturing facility (not shown). These steps include fabrication 202, probe 204, assembly 206, test 208, and transport 210. These steps are implemented according to specifications 124. One or more of these steps can include corresponding rules 203, 205, 207, 209, and 211. These rules can customize and or further constrain manufacturing requirements for a particular product. For example, these rules can be CCRs for a particular customer. For example, these rules can specify the versions of products that can be shipped to certain customers.

In one embodiment, at transport step 210 a label 214 is applied to or otherwise accompanies a product made using manufacturing process 122. The label 214 includes encoded image 216, which includes parameters associated with one or more of the manufacturing steps. In another embodiment, encoded image 216 includes one or more parameters corresponding to a logistical transport operation. For example, the parameters can indicate a location of a destination for shipment and/or a location of an origination of shipment for the product. In one example, manufacturing facility server 116 uses scanner 212 to scan encoded image 216. Parameters obtained from this scanning are transmitted over communication network 121 to distribution facility server 130 and/or customer facility server 132.

FIG. 3 shows an example label 301 having a QR code 302 on the label 301, according to one embodiment. In addition to QR code 302, label 301 may also include barcode 304. In one example, barcode 304 is a one-dimensional barcode. Label 301 may also further include alphanumeric data 306, which includes alphanumerical characters that are printed on label 301.

In one embodiment, labels (e.g., label 301) used for module production have standard requirements for each line printed on the label, but can vary in type. In one example, a supplier's module label content and format can conform to JEDEC label specifications. The supplier can use various packaging labels to enable faster identification of packaged contents. For example, the supplier's labels use standard barcode labels that conform to EIA Standard 556. The barcode labels enable customers to scan the supplier's containers for faster order verification. In one example, customer facility server 132 uses a scanner to scan encoded image 128. In one example, the use of the QR code on label 301 reduces discrepancies/gaps among DOM, CCR, Inventory, PCN, PSW, and PPAP documents.

In one embodiment, as mentioned above, each PPAP can have a unique version identifier that is encoded in the QR code. Thus, the QR code of a PPAP can be used to look up the identification of samples. The QR code has a set of parameters unique to the samples. Any subsequent documents (e.g., label 301 and/or other shipping document, package, or container) related to the samples is provided with the same QR code, such that the information can be accessed using a scanner without a need to connect to a server.

The addition of QR code 302 to label 301 can provide various advantages. For example, conformance of products and related content to potentially applicable legal, customer and/or internal requirements of the supplier can be improved. Conformity to official requirements from a governing or ruling group (e.g., trade laws) can be improved. Compliance with legal customer requirements relating to product content can be improved. Development, redesign, and/or deployment of a new or existing business process to conform to customer requirements can be made more efficient. Tracking of products shipped to a customer facility can be improved.

FIG. 4 shows an example Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) document 403 having a QR code 405 on the document, according to one embodiment. In one example, QR code 405 is printed as part of a paper document. In another example, QR code 405 is a label that is attached to a paper or plastic document 403. In one example, QR code 405 corresponds to specifications 124 for manufacturing process 122 of FIG. 1. In other embodiments, QR code 405 can be also included or placed on other documents such as PSW, PCN, BOM, CCR, etc.

FIG. 5 shows an example set of parameter types 502 and corresponding parameter values 504 that can be encoded in a QR code, according to one embodiment. In one example, the QR code is encoded image 104, encoded image 108, and/or encoded image 128. For each of these examples, the QR code encodes parameters that can be later obtained from scanning the encoded image as parameter values for evaluation by a computing device (e.g., computing device 112 or manufacturing facility server 116). In another example, the QR code is encoded image 216.

In one example, parameters 502 include one or more parameters related to materials used in the manufacture of a product. In another example, parameters 502 include one or more parameters related to assembly, testing, and/or location of manufacture.

FIG. 6 shows an example computing system for scanning one or more physical objects to determine parameters for a manufacturing process, according to one embodiment. Supplier server 6150 uses scanner 6151 to scan QR codes that are on physical objects, as described herein. Rules 6116 can include a list of attributes used to ensure that a customer receives the correct product that has been ordered by the customer. In one example, rules 6116 are CCRs.

Customer server 6170 uses scanner 6152 to scan QR codes, as described herein. Customer server 6170 can communicate with supplier server 6150 over communication network 121 based on parameters obtained from this scanning. Similarly, supplier server 6150 can initiate communication with customer server 6170 based on parameters obtained from scanning one or more QR codes.

In one embodiment, supplier server 6150 and/or customer server 6170 can send one or more communications over communication network 121 to mobile device 6147 or 6149 based on parameters obtained from scanning QR codes on one or more physical objects (e.g., a product, label, or PPAP document). In one example, such communications provide data that is displayed to a user of the mobile device regarding a status of a product in a manufacturing process. Communications can also occur with other types of computing devices, such as user terminals 6141, 6143, 6145.

In one embodiment, mobile device 6149 executes an application 6013. Application 6013 can be used to scan QR codes as described herein (e.g., using a camera of mobile device 6149).

In one embodiment, supplier server 6150 stores manufacturing data 6127. In one example, manufacturing data 6127 is manufacturing data 114. Manufacturing data 6127 can be updated in response to one or more parameters obtained using scanner 6151. Manufacturing data 6127 also can be updated in response to a communication received from mobile device 6149 and/or customer server 6170.

In one embodiment, a supplier's automotive customers purchase products such as, for example, memories (e.g., DDR, NAND, eMMC, SSD) through a distributor. Each customer is identified by a customer number, and the product is identified using a Customer Part Number (CPN). This code (CPN) can be used as a link between the supplier code (e.g., supplier part number) and the customer.

The CPN can be inserted into the PPAP document (e.g., using a QR code) as the identification code of the product, and also of the customer's requirements (e.g., shipment location, country, etc.). This can be done for those customers with shipment through the distributor. For these customers, a PPAP for the distributor is prepared and sent to the customer. The shipments of the product are sent to the distributor through the link to the CPN for the distributor, which redirects the product to the distributor.

In some cases, a customer buys through the distributor, and also has requested and approved a PPAP. In these cases, the distributor guarantees that the supplier's products are in compliance with the PPAP approved between the supplier and the customer.

In another embodiment, the distributor re-packs batches of product from the supplier according to a minimum bulk (e.g., in the Type and Reel box the maximum quantity for reel is 1000 units, while for Dray Pack it is 980 units). In one example, the customer requests an order of 500 units. These 500 units are repackaged in another box (without the supplier's label). Compliance with the PPAP can ensured for all products, including shipments made through the distributor, by using QR codes on documents, packaging, and/or product, as described herein.

In one example, a supplier uses a special label Supplier PPAP. The same label can also be used by the distributor. Use of the Supplier PPAP ensures compliance for the customer.

FIG. 7 shows an example computing system in which a mobile device 7201 scans a physical object (not shown) to determine parameters for a manufacturing process, according to one embodiment. In one example, the manufacturing process is manufacturing process 122 of FIG. 1.

Mobile device 7201 includes a scanner 7060 that scans an encoded image (not shown) on the physical object. This scanning obtains parameters encoded in the image. In one example, the parameters include values for processing conditions to use when making the product. In another example, the parameters may further include values to use for testing algorithms used to test the product during and/or after manufacture, assembly, and/or packaging. Other examples include values to use for design parameters, and/or parameters to identify materials to use in making the product.

In one embodiment, data obtained from scanning a QR code is stored in the stored data 7215 in memory 7212 of mobile device 7201. One or more of applications 7209 executing on mobile device 7201 can control scanner 7060 during this scanning, and perform various computation and control processes. In one example, stored data 7215 is processed to create table 7213, which includes parameter types and corresponding values for manufacturing process 122.

In one embodiment, mobile device 7201 communicates parameters to supplier server 6150 over communication network 121. Server 6150 requires that mobile device 7201 be authenticated. In one example, mobile device 7201 authenticates itself by accessing a computing device in network 7172, which communicates an authorization to supplier server 6150 after mobile device 7201 has been authenticated. In response to this authentication, supplier server 6150 changes manufacturing data 114 to adjust one or more steps of manufacturing process 122. In one example, security software 7207 controls this authentication process and communication with network 7172 and supplier server 6150.

In one embodiment, facility server 7160 is coupled to scanner 7040, which is used to scan a first QR code on a PPAP or other document. Mobile device 7149 includes a lens 7020 that scans a second QR code on a PPAP or other document. Parameters obtained from scanning the QR codes are compared. Based on this comparison, facility server 7160 and/or mobile device 7149 determines that the PPAP or other documents correspond to manufacturing process 122.

Although FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary system implemented in client-server architecture, embodiments of the disclosure can be implemented in various alternative architectures. For example, the facility server 7160 may be implemented via a peer to peer network of computing devices in some embodiments, where data/information from computing devices are shared via peer to peer communication connections.

In some embodiments, a combination of client server architecture and peer to peer architecture can be used, in which one or more centralized servers may be used to provide some of the information and/or services and the peer to peer network is used to provide other information and/or services. Thus, embodiments of the disclosure are not limited to a particular architecture.

FIG. 8 shows a block diagram of a computing device (e.g., a supplier server 6150, or a customer server 6170), which can be used in various embodiments. While FIG. 8 illustrates various components, it is not intended to represent any particular architecture or manner of interconnecting the components. Other systems that have fewer or more components may also be used. In an embodiment, a supplier server, a customer server, and a distributor server may each reside on separate computing systems, or one or more may run on the same computing device, in various combinations.

In FIG. 8, computing device 8201 includes an inter-connect 8202 (e.g., bus and system core logic), which interconnects a microprocessor(s) 8203 and memory 8208. The microprocessor 8203 is coupled to cache memory 8204 in the example of FIG. 8.

The inter-connect 8202 interconnects the microprocessor(s) 8203 and the memory 8208 together and also interconnects them to a display controller and display device 8207 and to peripheral devices such as input/output (I/O) devices 8205 through an input/output controller(s) 8206. Typical I/O devices include mice, keyboards, modems, network interfaces, printers, scanners, video cameras and other devices which are well known in the art.

The inter-connect 8202 may include one or more buses connected to one another through various bridges, controllers and/or adapters. In one embodiment the I/O controller 8206 includes a USB (Universal Serial Bus) adapter for controlling USB peripherals, and/or an IEEE-1394 bus adapter for controlling IEEE-1394 peripherals.

The memory 8208 may include ROM (Read Only Memory), and volatile RAM (Random Access Memory) and non-volatile memory, such as hard drive, flash memory, etc.

Volatile RAM is typically implemented as dynamic RAM (DRAM) which requires power continually in order to refresh or maintain the data in the memory. Non-volatile memory is typically a solid-state drive, magnetic hard drive, a magnetic optical drive, or an optical drive (e.g., a DVD RAM), or other type of memory system which maintains data even after power is removed from the system. The non-volatile memory may also be a random access memory.

The non-volatile memory can be a local device coupled directly to the rest of the components in the computing device. A non-volatile memory that is remote from the computing device, such as a network storage device coupled to the computing device through a network interface such as a modem or Ethernet interface, can also be used.

In one embodiment, a computing device as illustrated in FIG. 8 is used to implement computing device 112, supplier server 6150, customer server 6170, facility server 7160, and/or other servers.

In another embodiment, a computing device as illustrated in FIG. 8 is used to implement a user terminal or a mobile device on which an application is installed or being installed. A user terminal may be in the form, for example, of a laptop or notebook computer, or a personal desktop computer.

In some embodiments, one or more servers can be replaced with the service of a peer to peer network of a plurality of data processing systems, or a network of distributed computing systems. The peer to peer network, or a distributed computing system, can be collectively viewed as a computing device.

Embodiments of the disclosure can be implemented via the microprocessor(s) 8203 and/or the memory 8208. For example, the functionalities described can be partially implemented via hardware logic in the microprocessor(s) 8203 and partially using the instructions stored in the memory 8208. Some embodiments are implemented using the microprocessor(s) 8203 without additional instructions stored in the memory 8208. Some embodiments are implemented using the instructions stored in the memory 8208 for execution by one or more general purpose microprocessor(s) 8203. Thus, the disclosure is not limited to a specific configuration of hardware and/or software.

FIG. 9 shows a block diagram of a computing device (e.g., a mobile device of a user, or a user terminal), according to one embodiment. In FIG. 9, the computing device includes an inter-connect 9221 connecting the presentation device 9229, user input device 9231, a processor 9233, a memory 9227, a position identification unit 9225 and a communication device 9223.

In FIG. 9, the position identification unit 9225 is used to identify a geographic location. The position identification unit 9225 may include a satellite positioning system receiver, such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, to automatically identify the current position of the computing device.

In FIG. 9, the communication device 9223 is configured to communicate with a server to provide data, including parameter data (e.g., values for manufacturing specifications obtained from a QR code). In one embodiment, the user input device 9231 is configured to receive or generate user data or content. The user input device 9231 may include a text input device, a still image camera, a video camera, and/or a sound recorder, etc.

FIG. 10 shows a method for scanning encoded images on physical objects to determine parameters for a manufacturing process, according to one embodiment. For example, the method of FIG. 10 can be implemented in the system of FIGS. 1, 6, and 7.

The method of FIG. 10 can be performed by processing logic that can include hardware (e.g., processing device, circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, hardware of a device, integrated circuit, etc.), software (e.g., instructions run or executed on a processing device), or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the method of FIG. 10 is performed at least in part by one or more processors of supplier server 6150 of FIG. 6. In one embodiment, supplier server 6150 is implemented using the processors and memory of FIG. 8 or 9.

Although shown in a particular sequence or order, unless otherwise specified, the order of the processes can be modified. Thus, the illustrated embodiments should be understood only as examples, and the illustrated processes can be performed in a different order, and some processes can be performed in parallel. Additionally, one or more processes can be omitted in various embodiments. Thus, not all processes are required in every embodiment. Other process flows are possible.

At block 1001, a first image on a first object is scanned to obtain first parameters. The first parameters are encoded in the first image. The first parameters include specifications for making a product using a manufacturing process. In one example, the first image is a QR code, and the first object is a PPAP or other document.

At block 1003, a second image on a second object is scanned to obtain second parameters. The second parameters are encoded in the second image and correspond to the manufacturing process. In one example, the second image is a QR code, and the second object is a PSW, PCN, or other document.

At block 1005, the first parameters and the second parameters are compared. In one example, values for manufacturing specifications obtained from the first and second parameters are compared. In one example, computing device 112 and/or manufacturing facility server 116 performs the comparison.

At block 1007, based on comparing the first parameters and the second parameters, it is determined whether the first object corresponds to the second object. In one example, supplier server 6150 determines that an approval associated with a PSW document corresponds to a PPAP document. In one example, the PPAP document includes specifications 124 for manufacturing process 122 of FIG. 1.

At block 1009, in response to determining that the first object corresponds to the second object, an action is performed that corresponds to the manufacturing process. In one example, manufacturing facility server 116 updates manufacturing data 114. In one example, server 116 authorizes production of a product using manufacturing process 122. In one example, server 116 sends a communication regarding the scanned parameters over a communication network 121 to customer facility server 132.

In one embodiment, a method comprises: scanning a first image (e.g., encoded image 104) on a first object (e.g., physical object 102) to obtain first parameters (e.g., parameter types 502 and/or values 504), wherein the first parameters are encoded in the first image, the first parameters comprise specifications for making a product using a manufacturing process (e.g., manufacturing process 122), the specifications include at least one material used to build the product, and the manufacturing process comprises manufacturing steps performed in a manufacturing facility; scanning a second image (e.g., encoded image 108) on a second object (e.g., physical object 106) to obtain second parameters, wherein the second parameters are encoded in the second image, at least one of the second parameters corresponds to a first step of the manufacturing steps, and the first step uses the at least one material; comparing, by a computing device (e.g., computing device 112), the first parameters and the second parameters; based on comparing the first parameters and the second parameters, determining, by the computing device, whether the first object corresponds to the second object; and in response to determining that the first object corresponds to the second object, performing an action corresponding to the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, the first image is a two-dimensional barcode; the second image is a two-dimensional barcode; the first object is a document that includes the specifications for making the product; the second object is a document that includes revisions to the specifications; and the action comprises updating the specifications based on comparing the first parameters and the second parameters, and making the product using the updated specifications.

In one embodiment, the first image comprises alphanumerical characters, the first object is a label, and the alphanumerical characters are printed on the label.

In one embodiment, the first object is: a paper or plastic document (e.g., PPAP document 403); a card; a label affixed to the product made by the manufacturing process; a label affixed to a container that holds the product made by the manufacturing process; a machine used in the manufacturing process; or a package for the product made by the manufacturing process, wherein the first image is engraved on the package.

In one embodiment, the action comprises printing a label (e.g., label 301), and the label is associated with the product made by the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, the action comprises making the product using the manufacturing process, and the method further comprises: attaching a third image to the product, the third image encoding third parameters that correspond to the specifications for making the product.

In one embodiment, the specifications for making the product comprise at least one of: chemical processing conditions for making the product; testing processes for testing the product; design parameters for the product; or materials used to build the product.

In one embodiment, a scanner is used to scan the first image, and the scanner is: a camera configured to scan barcodes; a mobile device including a lens used to scan the first image, the mobile device executing software to decode the first image to obtain the first parameters; or a barcode reader.

In one embodiment, the first image is a two-dimensional barcode, the product is a memory device; the first object is a document that includes the specifications for making the memory device using the manufacturing process; the second object is a document that approves the specifications for making the memory device; and the action comprises sending, to another computing device, an authorization to make the memory device.

In one embodiment, the computing device is a mobile device (e.g., mobile device 7201), the first parameters further comprise a link, and a server (e.g., manufacturing facility server 116) stores data associated with the manufacturing process. The method further comprises accessing, by the mobile device, the stored data (e.g., manufacturing data 114, or manufacturing data 6127) using the link.

In one embodiment, the first object is a production part approval process (PPAP) document that specifies manufacturing requirements for making the product; the second object is a part submission warrant (PSW) document approving the product, or is a product change notification (PCN) document that updates the manufacturing requirements for the product; determining that the first object corresponds to the second object comprises determining that the PSW document authorizes manufacture of the product as specified in the PPAP document, or determining that the PCN document updates the manufacturing requirements; and the action comprises making the product in accordance with the manufacturing requirements specified in the PPAP document, or in accordance with the updated manufacturing requirements.

In one embodiment, the PPAP document is provided by a supplier to a customer, the PSW document is received by the supplier from the customer in response to the PPAP document, and the product is made by the supplier.

In one embodiment, the action comprises generating a report that indicates differences between first manufacturing requirements for the manufacturing process encoded by the first parameters and second manufacturing requirements for the manufacturing process encoded by the second parameters.

In one embodiment, the first image encodes an identifier, and the method further comprises looking up, using the identifier, data regarding the product made using the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, determining that the first object corresponds to the second object comprises correlating the first image with the second image, and the action comprises displaying, in a user interface of a mobile device, the specifications for making the product.

In one embodiment, determining that the first object corresponds to the second object comprises determining that a production part approval process (PPAP) document matches at least one of a part submission warrant (PSW) document or a product change notification (PCN) document.

In one embodiment, the first parameters further comprise one or more processing, product, or test characteristics observed during manufacture of the product made using the manufacturing process, and the method further comprises affixing the first image to at least one of the product, a container or package containing the product, or a document shipped with the product.

In one embodiment, the first parameters further comprise at least one of: an identifier for a material used in the manufacturing process; an identifier for an entity that makes the product using the manufacturing process; an identifier for a physical facility to receive the product made using the manufacturing process; an identifier that identifies the product made using the manufacturing process; a measurement associated with the manufacturing process; a size of a component of the product; a size of a manufacturing device associated with one of the manufacturing steps; a link to a server that stores data associated with the manufacturing process, wherein the stored data comprises drawings, figures, graphics, or diagrams regarding the product made using the manufacturing process; a link to a server that stores data associated with the manufacturing process for access by a computing device using the link, wherein access to the stored data requires authentication of the computing device; or a location of the manufacturing facility.

In one embodiment, a system comprises: at least one processing device; and memory containing instructions configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: scan a first image on a first object to obtain first parameters, wherein the first parameters are encoded in the first image, the first parameters comprise specifications for making a product using a manufacturing process, and the manufacturing process comprises manufacturing steps performed in a manufacturing facility; scan a second image on a second object to obtain second parameters, wherein the second parameters are encoded in the second image, and at least one of the second parameters corresponds to at least one of the manufacturing steps; compare the first parameters and the second parameters; based on comparing the first parameters and the second parameters, determine whether the first object corresponds to the second object; and in response to determining that the first object corresponds to the second object, perform an action corresponding to the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer storage medium stores instructions which, when executed on a computing device, cause the computing device to at least: scan a first image on a first object to obtain first parameters, wherein the first parameters are encoded in the first image, the first parameters comprise specifications for making a product using a manufacturing process, and the manufacturing process comprises manufacturing steps performed in a manufacturing facility; scan a second image on a second object to obtain second parameters, wherein the second parameters are encoded in the second image, and at least one of the second parameters corresponds to at least one of the manufacturing steps; compare the first parameters and the second parameters; based on comparing the first parameters and the second parameters, determine whether the first object corresponds to the second object; and in response to determining that the first object corresponds to the second object, perform an action corresponding to the manufacturing process.

Using Encoded Images to Trace Specifications for a Manufacturing Process

Various embodiments related to using encoded images on physical objects to trace specifications for a manufacturing process are now described below. The generality of the following description is not limited by the various embodiments described above.

For purposes of illustration, various exemplary embodiments are described below in the context of a vehicle manufacturer. However, the methods and systems of the present disclosure are not limited to use in a vehicle manufacturing process. Instead, other embodiments may relate to the manufacture of products for other types of systems (e.g., cloud storage systems, security hardware, etc.).

In one example, the encoded images are QR codes on physical objects (e.g., physical components, printed documents, and/or labels). In one example, the manufacturing process is silicon wafer processing for making a memory device for an autonomous automobile.

In one example of a manufacturing process, a vehicle manufacturer specifies the parameters of a flash memory device, prints the specifications out on a paper document (e.g., a PPAP document that is often over 100 pages in length and difficult for a human to manually review in paper form), and sends it to a supplier of the flash memory device. The supplier does a manual, human review of the paper document, and makes a batch of sample flash memory devices. Then, the supplier sends the samples to the vehicle manufacturer with a printed deck of paper certifying that these samples are made using certain specified parameters (e.g., including some or all specifications as originally sent by the vehicle manufacturer to the supplier in a PPAP document). If the vehicle manufacturer accepts the samples (e.g., by sending an electronic or paper-based authorization to the supplier to manufacture the flash memory device), the supplier can proceed to make a quantity of flash memory devices, and then ship them to the vehicle manufacturer.

The manufacturing process described above is a simple case. In other cases, various technical problems arise when revisions are made to the specifications by the supplier and/or the vehicle manufacturer. For example, the vehicle manufacturer may reject the samples and request that one or more specifications be changed. It is difficult for a human to manually review and compare printed documents to identify changes in particular specifications. As a result, technical errors may frequently occur due to human error in reviewing such printed documents.

In one example, the vehicle manufacturer's requested specifications may conflict with the supplier's manufacturing process (e.g., the supplier's silicon wafer processing, assembly, packaging, or testing machines may not be able to meet the specifications requested by the vehicle manufacturer). The supplier sends revisions, and the vehicle manufacturer may send revisions on revisions. In another case, the production line of the supplier may change, which may have an impact on a previously-approved specification (and thus require revisions be communicated between the supplier and the vehicle manufacturer). In another example, different vehicles or vehicle models of the vehicle manufacturer can have different specifications. In one example, orders from different vehicle manufacturers may have specification overlaps and differences. Also, there may be further complications as to what products can be shipped to particular countries (e.g., due to export restrictions). Managing all these changes through manual reading of paper can be inefficient, and lead to errors in manufacturing of products.

Various embodiments described below provide a technological solution to one or more of the above technical problems. In some embodiments, QR codes can be used to improve the review and comparison of specifications in PPAP, PSW, PCN, EOL, CCR and/or BOM printed documents. In one embodiment, each printed document associated with a manufacturing process includes a QR code placed on the printed document (e.g., a QR code in a label placed on a document, or a QR code printed in the document itself).

Using the QR codes on the printed documents can simplify manual review of specifications and revisions to specifications that are included in the documents. In a simple case, the same QR code can be placed on each printed document. By scanning the QR code on each document when received from a vehicle manufacturer or a supplier, the document can be determined to correspond to other documents in possession of the human reviewer. In one example, the reviewer can scan the QR code using a camera of a mobile device.

In other cases, the QR code placed on each printed document can be different. However, the QR code includes a common set of parameters that are the same in each of the QR codes. Thus, a human reviewer can scan a QR code on first printed document being reviewed to obtain parameters that include the common set of parameters. The reviewer can scan a QR code on a second printed document being reviewed to obtain parameters that also include the same common set of parameters. Thus, in this manner, the reviewer can determine that the first printed document corresponds to the second printed document. Further, parameters obtained from the QR codes can be used to correlate each printed document to a manufacturing process.

In many cases, a QR code cannot encode all specifications or other data of interest for a particular manufacturing process due to data size limitations of the QR code. Thus, a limited number of data items is selected for encoding. In one example, these encoded data items can be the common set of parameters mentioned above, to be included in all QR codes that correspond to a manufacturing process and/or to a set of printed documents associated with the manufacturing process. In another example, these encoded data items can be links that point to stored data (e.g., data stored in a database on manufacturing facility server 116). In another example, these encoded data items can include unique identifiers (e.g., an alphanumeric value) that identify, for example, a manufacturing process, a product, a sample, etc. The unique identifier can be read by scanning the QR code, then used to search for stored data (e.g., data stored in a database on manufacturing facility server 116).

In one embodiment, a vehicle manufacturer creates specifications for a product and includes the specifications in a PPAP document that is provided to a supplier. The PPAP document includes a QR code that corresponds to the specifications. In one example, the QR code is attached to the PPAP document as a label. In another example, the QR code is printed on the paper document along with other text and figures.

In one embodiment, the QR code itself is generated by either the supplier or the vehicle manufacturer. If the supplier generates the QR code, the supplier can send the QR code to the vehicle manufacturer by electronic communication over communication network 121. If the vehicle manufacturer generates the secure code, the vehicle manufacturer can send the QR code to the supplier by electronic communication over communication network 121.

In one embodiment, scanning of QR codes on various documents is performed. In order to determine if two documents correspond to one another, it is determined whether there is a partial match of parameter sets. For example, a correspondence rule may be established that requires that a set of predetermined parameters (e.g., the common set of parameters above) be identical in order to determine that two documents are corresponding.

FIG. 11 shows a method for using encoded images on physical objects to trace specifications for a manufacturing process, according to one embodiment. For example, the method of FIG. 11 can be implemented in the system of FIGS. 1, 6, and 7.

The method of FIG. 11 can be performed by processing logic that can include hardware (e.g., processing device, circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, hardware of a device, integrated circuit, etc.), software (e.g., instructions run or executed on a processing device), or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the method of FIG. 11 is performed at least in part by one or more processors of supplier server 6150 of FIG. 6. In one embodiment, supplier server 6150 is implemented using the processors and memory of FIG. 8 or 9.

Although shown in a particular sequence or order, unless otherwise specified, the order of the processes can be modified. Thus, the illustrated embodiments should be understood only as examples, and the illustrated processes can be performed in a different order, and some processes can be performed in parallel. Additionally, one or more processes can be omitted in various embodiments. Thus, not all processes are required in every embodiment. Other process flows are possible.

At block 1101, a first printed document is received from a manufacturer. The first printed document includes specifications for making a product using a manufacturing process and includes a first encoded image. In one example, the first printed document is PPAP document 403. In one example, the encoded image is QR code 405. In one example, the manufacturer is a vehicle manufacturer.

At block 1103, a second printed document is sent to the manufacturer. The second printed document includes a second encoded image. In one example, the second encoded image is a QR code. In one example, the first encoded image and the second encoded image are identical. In one example, the first encoded image and second encoded image each contain a same common set of parameters. In one example, the second printed document is a PSW or PCN document.

At block 1105, a third printed document is received from the manufacturer. The third printed document corresponds to revisions to the specifications and includes a third encoded image. In one example, the third encoded image is identical to the first encoded image and/or the second encoded image. In one example, the third encoded image contains the same common set of parameters above. In one example, the third printed document includes an approval to a PSW and/or PCN document.

At block 1107, the third encoded image is scanned. In one example, the third encoded image is a QR code. In one example, one or more parameters obtained from scanning the third encoded image are compared to parameters obtained from scanning one or more other encoded images, and/or an identifier or other data stored in a database.

At block 1109, based at least on scanning the third encoded image, it is determined that the third printed document corresponds to at least one of the first printed document or the second printed document. In one example, it is determined that the third encoded image contains the same common set of parameters as a QR code on another document associated with the manufacturing process for the product.

At block 1111, in response to determining that the third printed document corresponds to at least one of the first printed document or the second printed document, at least one action is performed. In one example, the action is the manufacture of the product according to the specifications. In other examples, the action can be one or more actions as described above for block 1009 of FIG. 10.

In one embodiment, a method comprises: receiving, from a vehicle manufacturer, a first printed document (e.g., a PPAP document) including specifications for a product (e.g., a memory device) to be integrated into a vehicle, wherein the first printed document further includes a first encoded image, the first encoded image including first parameters (e.g., the common set of parameters encoded in a QR code as described above); manufacturing, based on the specifications, a sample of the product; sending, to the vehicle manufacturer, the sample with a second printed document (e.g., a PSW document) indicating that the sample was made using the specifications, wherein the second printed document includes a second encoded image, the second encoded image including the first parameters; receiving, from the vehicle manufacturer, a third printed document that corresponds to revisions to the specifications, wherein the third printed document includes a third encoded image, the third encoded image including the first parameters; scanning, by at least one computing device (e.g., a mobile device), the third encoded image; determining, by the at least one computing device and based at least on scanning the third encoded image, that the third printed document corresponds to at least one of the first printed document or the second printed document; and in response to determining that the third printed document corresponds to at least one of the first printed document or the second printed document, manufacturing the product according to the revisions to the specifications.

In one example, the third printed document includes revisions to processing conditions, assembly or packaging requirements, and/or testing requirements. In one example, the third printed document includes an approval for revisions to specifications. In one example, the approval is for revisions to specifications requested by the supplier in a PCN document.

In one embodiment, the first encoded image is generated by the at least one computing device (e.g., manufacturing facility server 116), or by a computing device of the vehicle manufacturer (e.g., customer facility server 132).

In one embodiment, the revisions to the specifications are first revisions, and the method further comprises sending, to the vehicle manufacturer in response to receiving the third printed document, a fourth printed document including second revisions to the specifications, wherein the fourth printed document further includes a fourth encoded image, the fourth encoded image including the first parameters.

In one embodiment, the first printed document is a production part approval process (PPAP) document, and the method further comprises: printing an updated PPAP document that includes the revisions to the specifications, wherein the updated PPAP document includes a fourth encoded image, the fourth encoded image including the first parameters; sending, to the vehicle manufacturer, the updated PPAP document.

In one embodiment, the revisions are first revisions, and the first printed document is a production part approval process (PPAP) document. The method further comprises: sending, to the vehicle manufacturer, a printed product change notification (PCN) document that includes second revisions to the specifications; receiving, from the vehicle manufacturer, an approval of the PCN document; in response to receiving the approval of the PCN document, sending, to the vehicle manufacturer, an updated production part approval process (PPAP) document that includes the second revisions, wherein the updated PPAP document includes a fourth encoded image, the fourth encoded image including the first parameters.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises: scanning the first encoded image; comparing parameters obtained from scanning the first and third encoded images; and based on comparing the parameters, generate a report indicating at least one parameter that differs from the first parameters.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises at least one of displaying the report in a user interface of a mobile device, or sending the report to the vehicle manufacturer (e.g., sending a communication via communication network 121).

In one embodiment, the method further comprises scanning the first encoded image or the second encoded image, and determining that the third printed document corresponds to at least one of the first printed document or the second printed document comprises: determining from scanning the third encoded image that the third encoded image includes the first parameters; and determining from scanning the first encoded image that the first encoded image includes the first parameters, or determining from scanning the second encoded image that the second encoded image includes the first parameters.

In one embodiment, the first parameters uniquely correspond to at least one of: a sample made according to the specifications or the revisions to the specifications; or a printed production part approval process (PPAP) document that corresponds to the specifications or the revisions to the specifications.

In one embodiment, the first parameters include parameters regarding at least one of type of package, mold compound type, wire bond material, leadframe material, substrate material, or thermal resistance.

In one embodiment, the first parameters include a manufacturer part number of the product, and a description of the product.

In one embodiment, scanning the third encoded image comprises obtaining a link, and the method further comprises accessing, using the link, stored data associated with the specifications.

In one embodiment, the stored data comprises drawings or diagrams of the product.

In one embodiment, the stored data is accessed by a mobile device, and the method further comprises displaying at least a portion of the stored data in a user interface of the mobile device.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises: scanning the first or second encoded image, wherein scanning the first or second encoded image provides a unique version identifier associated with the sample; and identifying stored data associated with the sample using the unique version identifier.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises: sending the first printed document to a subcontractor that supplies a component used to manufacture the product; receiving a fourth printed document from the subcontractor that accompanies the component, the fourth printed document including a fourth encoded image that includes the first parameters; scanning the fourth encoded image to obtain the first parameters; and based on the first parameters obtained from scanning the fourth encoded image, authorizing use of the component in manufacturing the product.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises: generating a fourth printed document including a fourth encoded image that includes the first parameters; sending the fourth printed document to a distributor facility; and shipping the manufactured product to the distributor facility; wherein: the fourth encoded image is scanned at the distributor facility; the product is shipped, based on scanning the fourth encoded image at the distributor facility, to the vehicle manufacturer; the vehicle manufacturer scans the fourth encoded image to confirm authenticity of the product; and in response to confirming the authenticity of the product, the vehicle manufacturer integrates the product into the vehicle.

In one embodiment, a system comprises: at least one processing device (e.g., manufacturing facility server 116); and memory containing instructions configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: receive, from a manufacturer, a first printed document including specifications for a product, wherein the first printed document further includes a first encoded image, the first encoded image including first parameters; send, to the manufacturer, a second printed document, wherein the second printed document includes a second encoded image, the second encoded image including the first parameters; receive, from the manufacturer, a third printed document that corresponds to revisions to the specifications, wherein the third printed document includes a third encoded image, the third encoded image including the first parameters; scan the third encoded image; determine, based at least on scanning the third encoded image, that the third printed document corresponds to at least one of the first printed document or the second printed document; and in response to determining that the third printed document corresponds to at least one of the first printed document or the second printed document, perform at least one action associated with the specifications.

In one embodiment, determining that the third printed document corresponds to at least one of the first printed document or the second printed document comprises comparing parameters obtained from scanning the third encoded image to parameters obtained from scanning the first or second encoded image.

In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer storage medium stores instructions which, when executed on a computing device, cause the computing device to at least: receive, from a manufacturer, a first printed document including specifications for a first product to be integrated as a component into another product, wherein the first printed document further includes a first encoded image, the first encoded image including first parameters; send, to the manufacturer, a second printed document, wherein the second printed document includes a second encoded image, the second encoded image including the first parameters; receive, from the manufacturer, a third printed document that corresponds to revisions to the specifications, wherein the third printed document includes a third encoded image, the third encoded image including the first parameters; scan the third encoded image; determine, based at least on scanning the third encoded image, that the third printed document corresponds to at least one of the first printed document or the second printed document; and in response to determining that the third printed document corresponds to at least one of the first printed document or the second printed document, manufacture the first product according to the revisions to the specifications.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of an autonomous vehicle including one or more various components and/or subsystems, each of which can be updated in various embodiments to control navigation based at least in part on received object data, configure the vehicle, and/or perform other actions associated with the vehicle. The system illustrated in FIG. 12 may be installed entirely within a vehicle. In one example, the autonomous vehicle is manufactured by a vehicle manufacturer by integrating a memory device or other product obtained from a memory device or other supplier. In one example, the memory device is memory 412 in FIG. 12. In one example, the memory device or other product for the autonomous vehicle of FIG. 12 represents a product as described for FIGS. 10 and 11 above.

The system includes an autonomous vehicle subsystem 402. In the illustrated embodiment, autonomous vehicle subsystem 402 includes map database 402A, radar devices 402B, Lidar devices 402C, digital cameras 402D, sonar devices 402E, GPS receivers 402F, and inertial measurement units 402G. Each of the components of autonomous vehicle subsystem 402 comprise standard components provided in most current autonomous vehicles. In one embodiment, map database 402A stores a plurality of high-definition three-dimensional maps used for routing and navigation. Radar devices 402B, Lidar devices 402C, digital cameras 402D, sonar devices 402E, GPS receivers 402F, and inertial measurement units 402G may comprise various respective devices installed at various positions throughout the autonomous vehicle as known in the art. For example, these devices may be installed along the perimeter of an autonomous vehicle to provide location awareness, collision avoidance, and other standard autonomous vehicle functionality.

Vehicular subsystem 406 is additionally included within the system.

Vehicular subsystem 406 includes various anti-lock braking systems 406A, engine control units 402B, and transmission control units 402C. These components may be utilized to control the operation of the autonomous vehicle in response to the streaming data generated by autonomous vehicle subsystem 402A. The standard autonomous vehicle interactions between autonomous vehicle subsystem 402 and vehicular subsystem 406 are generally known in the art and are not described in detail herein.

The processing side of the system includes one or more processors 410, short-term memory 412, an RF system 414, graphics processing units (GPUs) 416, long-term storage 418 and one or more interfaces 420.

The one or more processors 410 may comprise central processing units, FPGAs, or any range of processing devices needed to support the operations of the autonomous vehicle. Memory 412 comprises DRAM or other suitable volatile RAM for temporary storage of data required by processors 410. RF system 414 may comprise a cellular transceiver and/or satellite transceiver. Long-term storage 418 may comprise one or more high-capacity solid-state drives (SSDs). In general, long-term storage 418 may be utilized to store, for example, high-definition maps, routing data, and any other data requiring permanent or semi-permanent storage. GPUs 416 may comprise one more high throughput GPU devices for processing data received from autonomous vehicle subsystem 402A. Finally, interfaces 420 may comprise various display units positioned within the autonomous vehicle (e.g., an in-dash screen).

The system additionally includes a reporting subsystem 404 which performs data collection (e.g., collection of data obtained from sensors of the vehicle that is used to drive the vehicle). The reporting subsystem 404 includes a sensor monitor 404A which is connected to bus 408 and records sensor data transmitted on the bus 408 as well as any log data transmitted on the bus. The reporting subsystem 404 may additionally include one or more endpoints to allow for system components to transmit log data directly to the reporting subsystem 404.

The reporting subsystem 404 additionally includes a packager 404B. In one embodiment, packager 404B retrieves the data from the sensor monitor 404A or endpoints and packages the raw data for transmission to a central system. In some embodiments, packager 404B may be configured to package data at periodic time intervals. Alternatively, or in conjunction with the foregoing, packager 404B may transmit data in real-time and may compress data to facilitate real-time communications with a central system.

The reporting subsystem 404 additionally includes a batch processor 404C. In one embodiment, the batch processor 404C is configured to perform any preprocessing on recorded data prior to transmittal. For example, batch processor 404C may perform compression operations on the data prior to packaging by packager 404B. In another embodiment, batch processor 404C may be configured to filter the recorded data to remove extraneous data prior to packaging or transmittal. In another embodiment, batch processor 404C may be configured to perform data cleaning on the recorded data to conform the raw data to a format suitable for further processing by the central system.

Each of the devices is connected via a bus 408. In one embodiment, the bus 408 may comprise a controller area network (CAN) bus. In some embodiments, other bus types may be used (e.g., a FlexRay or MOST bus). Additionally, each subsystem may include one or more additional busses to handle internal subsystem communications (e.g., LIN busses for lower bandwidth communications).

Controlling Transport Based on Scanning of Encoded Images

Various embodiments related to controlling transport of physical objects based on scanning of encoded images are now described below. The generality of the following description is not limited by the various embodiments described above.

For purposes of illustration, some exemplary embodiments are described below in the context of a vehicle manufacturer. However, the methods and systems of the present disclosure are not limited to use in a vehicle manufacturing process. Instead, other embodiments may relate to the manufacture of products for other types of systems (e.g., cloud storage systems, security hardware, etc.).

In one example, the encoded images are QR codes on physical objects (e.g., physical components, printed documents, and/or labels). In one example, the manufacturing process is silicon wafer processing for making a memory device for an autonomous automobile.

In one example of a manufacturing process, a vehicle manufacturer specifies the parameters of a flash memory device, prints the specifications out on a paper document (e.g., a PPAP document), and sends it to a supplier of the flash memory device. The supplier does a manual, human review of the paper document, and makes a batch of sample flash memory devices. Then, the supplier sends the samples to the vehicle manufacturer with a printed deck of paper certifying that these samples are made using certain specified parameters (e.g., including some or all specifications as originally sent by the vehicle manufacturer to the supplier in a PPAP document). If the vehicle manufacturer accepts the samples (e.g., by sending an electronic or paper-based authorization to the supplier to manufacture the flash memory device), the supplier can proceed to make a quantity of flash memory devices, and then ship them to the vehicle manufacturer.

In some cases, when a customer (e.g., the vehicle manufacturer above) interacts with a supplier of a product (e.g., the flash memory device supplier above), the customer specifies requirements related to the types of a product that can be shipped to the customer. In one example, the customer makes a request to limit product shipment only from a specifically-identified manufacturing facility. In one case, the manufacturing facility is a facility that has met qualification requirements such as imposed by the customer and/or the supplier.

In another example, the supplier itself may limit product shipment only from an identified manufacturing facility due to a manufacturing excursion that has occurred in an alternative facility. In one case, product shipment is limited to maintain quality, performance, and/or other requirements of the supplier and/or the customer. In some cases, if there is a manufacturing excursion, then the supplier can generate a rule that blocks product from being sent to identified customers (e.g., customers for which the excursion will result in non-qualifying product and/or product that fails customer testing and/or quality control). In other cases, the supplier may limit shipment of product from a particular facility to block shipment of a lower grade that will be unacceptable to the customer and/or to prevent product from being shipped to the company that has an age exceeding a predetermined limit. In one example, product that has completed manufacturing for more than 90 days is blocked from being shipped to the customer.

In some cases, customer containment rules (CCRs) are applied to limit or control the versions of products that are shipped to the customer. In one example, the CCRs are added to a sales order based on an approved PSW document (e.g., the approved PSW document may include specific customer requirements regarding shipping of product). In one example, the CCRs include a restrictive list of attributes that is systematically added to a sales order to ensure that the customer receives the correct product. The restrictive list of attributes corresponds to shipping restrictions for the customer. The shipping restrictions are based on specific requirements received from the customer. In one example, a set of CCRs is associated with each customer of the supplier. In one example, a single supplier product number can be associated with multiple CCRs. For example, different types or versions of the same product will be shipped to different customers due to differences in the CCRs.

However, when using CCRs or other rules, due to the large number of variations in manufacturing process conditions and/or customer requirements coupled with often extensive back-and-forth communications, there is a high chance of error. For example, a CCR may be applied incorrectly due to human confusion in interpreting communications from a customer and/or supplier. In other cases, different manufacturing steps and/or facilities may have difficulty in communicating numerous rules, and/or revisions to such rules, in an efficient manner. This can lead to delays and/or errors in manufacturing products.

Various embodiments described below provide a technological solution to one or more of the above technical problems. In one embodiment, a QR code is used on documents associated with a manufacturing process (e.g., physical object 102 in FIG. 1). Based on the information encoded in the QR code (e.g., as printed on a PSW document and/or associated information that is pre-linked to the QR code and/or PPAP), a computer system can automate at least part of the process of inserting or other otherwise generating rules/conditions (e.g., for use as CCRs). In general, a same batch of products may meet the requirements of several buyers. A PPAP and/or PSW defines the requirements of a customer. A QR code can be initially added as an input to one or more CCRs (e.g., parameters from the QR code can be inputs to a model that generates the CCRs). Also, the computer system can be programmed to automatically determine whether the batch of the products meets the requirements of the PPAP/PSW.

In one embodiment, a vehicle manufacturer creates specifications for a product and includes the specifications in a PPAP document that is provided to a supplier. The PPAP document includes a QR code that corresponds to the specifications. In one example, the QR code is attached to the PPAP document as a label. In another example, the QR code is printed on the paper document along with other text and figures. The QR code is scanned to obtain parameters that correspond to the specifications. The parameters are used to generate one or more rules for controlling transport and/or logistics of manufactured product (e.g., CCRs are generated based on the parameters).

In one example, after a product is manufactured, one or more characteristics of, and/or other data associated with, the final product and/or its process of manufacture are compared to the rules (e.g., CCRs) to confirm that shipping to the customer is authorized. If the rules are satisfied, then the product is shipped to the customer directly, or via a distributor. In some cases, if the rules are not satisfied, then further manufacturing may be performed.

In one embodiment, CCRs generated as described above are stored in a database. The CCRs have attributes that correspond to a manufacturing process that will be used to make a product. A QR code is generated as described above, which corresponds to specifications for the manufacturing process. The QR code further includes one or more of the attributes of the CCRs. After the product is manufactured and shipped, a distributor or customer can scan the QR code after receiving the product. By scanning the QR code, the distributor or customer can obtain the attributes of the CCRs. These obtained attributes can be used to confirm that the correct type or version of a product has been shipped by the supplier.

In one example, the attributes of the CCRs can include a product category and corresponding attributes for the product category. In one example, the corresponding attributes include disposition, data regarding server flow testing, customer, data regarding system level testing, fabrication data, shipping release date, assembly site, fabrication site, data regarding fabrication/external die, data regarding assembly, an identifier regarding fabrication, an identifier regarding reticle wave, etc.

In one example, CCRs can be used in various cases to ensure that customers receive the correct product. In one case, the CCR is used for order shipping. In one case, the CCR is used for multiple levels of attributes. In one case, the CCR is used for quality or customer-based restrictions. In one case, the CCR is used for all customer requested restrictions.

In one embodiment, the attributes of the CCRs can include an attribute name and an attribute value. The attributes are monitored and updated during the manufacturing process. In one example, the attributes are tracked and/or updated in real-time during manufacturing/shipping by a tracking server.

In one embodiment, one or more manufacturer rules may be generated based on data obtained from the manufacturing process. For example, data obtained from metrology can be provided as feedback to an earlier manufacturing step in the manufacturing process. In one example, the metrology is obtained at a probe stage. In one example, based on the feedback, a manufacturing machine is adjusted. In one example, based on the feedback, the manufacturing process for a type or version of product can be changed. In one example, based on the feedback, the shipping and/or other logistical handling of a product can be controlled. In one embodiment, data obtained from the manufacturing process can be stored by the tracking server above.

In light of the above, generating manufacturer rules based on scanning of encoded images can provide various advantages. For example, traceability of the product to documents associated with the manufacturing process can be improved. For example, traceability of the materials used in manufacturing a product can be improved. In one example, tracking of a product sent to a distributor or customer is improved. In one example, communication of changes associated with a product can be more rapidly communicated to customers.

FIG. 13 shows an example computing system for using data obtained from scanning an encoded image 1303 to generate rules that govern physical transport and/or other logistics associated with the handling and/or movement of physical objects, according to one embodiment. In one example, the physical object is physical product 1315, which is made in manufacturing facility 1309 by various manufacturing machines including manufacturing machine 1311. Physical product 1315 can include encoded image 1317 on the product itself and/or on packaging used for physical product 1315.

In one example, encoded image 1317 is a QR code that corresponds to specifications for a manufacturing process used to make physical product 1315. Encoded image 1317 may include one or more manufacturer rules that are generated based on scanning of other encoded images (e.g., encoded image 1303).

A scanner 1305 scans encoded image 1303 that is on physical object 1301. In one example, physical object 1301 is a printed document. In one example, physical object 1301 is a PPAP or PSW document. Scanner 1305 is controlled by a computing device 1307. Computing device 1307 obtains parameters from scanning encoded image 1303. These parameters include specifications for a product to be made by a manufacturing process. Computing device 1307, or another computer device in communication with computing device 1307, generates one or more manufacturer rules using the parameters obtained from scanning encoded image 1303.

In one example, the manufacturer rules are customer rules for a customer that operates customer facility 1329. In one example, the customer is a vehicle manufacturer and physical product 1315 is a memory device. In one example, the manufacturer rules are CCRs.

The generated manufacturer rules are stored in customer rules database 1313. In one example, the manufacturer rules are stored as attribute names and corresponding attribute values. The manufacturer rules can be queried at various times during manufacture and/or shipping or other handling of a product. For example, manufacturing facility server 116 of FIG. 1 can query customer rules database 1313 to determine whether physical product 1315 conforms to one or more of the manufacturer rules (e.g., CCRs). In response to determining that physical product 1315 conforms to the manufacturer rules, physical product 1315 is transported to the customer.

In some cases, instead of direct transport to a customer, physical product 1315 is transported to a distribution facility 1319 of a distributor. At distribution facility 1319, encoded image 1317 is scanned by the distributor. This scanning can be used to obtain parameters that include one or more manufacturer rules (e.g., CCRs for the customer). Based on the scanned rules, the distributor causes transport 1321 of physical product 1315 to customer facility 1329. Distribution facility server 130 of FIG. 1 can generate rules 1323 based on parameters obtained from scanning encoded image 1317. In one example, rules 1323 are generated in a similar manner as discussed above for manufacturer rules generated based on scanning of encoded image 1303. Rules 1323 can be used by the distribution facility 1319 to control logistics and/or other handling of physical product 1315.

In one example, a label 1325 can include an encoded image 1327 that includes rules 1323. Label 1325 can be placed on physical product 1315 for transport 1321 to customer facility 1329. After receiving physical product 1315, the customer can scan encoded image 1327 to confirm that the correct product has been received.

During manufacturing and/or shipping of physical product 1315, manufacturing facility 1309, distribution facility 1319, and/or customer facility 1329 can communicate with one another via communication network 121. In one example, customer facility 1329 sends product requirements to manufacturing facility 1309, which generates CCRs based on these product requirements. In one example, these product requirements can be used along with parameters obtained from scanning encoded image 1303 and/or encoded image 1317 to generate and/or update CCRs. The generated and/or updated CCRs are stored in customer rules database 1313.

In one embodiment, tracking server 1331 communicates with manufacturing facility 1309, distribution facility 1319, and/or customer facility 1329 to track progress of physical product 1315 through a manufacturing process and during shipment to customer facility 1329. Manufacturing facility 1309 can send one or more manufacturer rules from customer rules database 1313 to tracking server 1331 for storage in a database (not shown) of tracking server 1331.

In one embodiment, tracking server 1331 maintains materials database 1335 and supplier database 1333. Materials database 1335 stores materials used for the manufacture of physical product 1315. Tracking server 1331 updates materials database 1335 as physical product 1315 is manufactured.

Supplier database 1333 maintains data associated with suppliers of materials used to manufacture physical product 1315. In one example, the material used is component 1337, which is provided by a component supplier. Component 1337 includes an encoded image 1339 that can be scanned to obtain parameters that are stored by tracking server 1331 in supplier database 1333 and/or materials database 1335. In one example, encoded image 1339 is a QR code that includes parameters corresponding to specifications for a manufacturing process used to make physical product 1315.

FIG. 14 shows a method for controlling transport of physical objects based on scanning of encoded images, according to one embodiment. For example, the method of FIG. 14 can be implemented in the system of FIGS. 1, 6, 7 and 13.

The method of FIG. 14 can be performed by processing logic that can include hardware (e.g., processing device, circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, hardware of a device, integrated circuit, etc.), software (e.g., instructions run or executed on a processing device), or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the method of FIG. 14 is performed at least in part by one or more processors of supplier server 6150 of FIG. 6 or computing device 1307 of FIG. 13. In one embodiment, supplier server 6150 or computing device 1307 is implemented using the processors and memory of FIG. 8 or 9.

Although shown in a particular sequence or order, unless otherwise specified, the order of the processes can be modified. Thus, the illustrated embodiments should be understood only as examples, and the illustrated processes can be performed in a different order, and some processes can be performed in parallel. Additionally, one or more processes can be omitted in various embodiments. Thus, not all processes are required in every embodiment. Other process flows are possible.

At block 1401, an encoded image on a physical object is scanned to obtain parameters. The parameters include specifications for a product to be made by a manufacturing process. In one example, the physical object is physical object 1301, which is scanned by scanner 1305. In one example, the product is physical product 1315, which is made by a manufacturing process in manufacturing facility 1309.

At block 1403, the parameters are used to generate one or more manufacturer rules. In one example, the manufacturer rules are CCRs.

At block 1405, the manufacturer rules are stored in a database. In one example, the rules are stored in customer rules database 1313.

At block 1407, the database is queried to determine whether the product conforms to the manufacturer rules. In one example, a computing device of manufacturing facility 1309 queries customer rules database 1313. The query uses data obtained from a manufacturing process used to manufacture physical product 1315. In one example, the query uses data obtained from sensors of manufacturer machine 1311.

At block 1409, in response to determining that the product conforms to the manufacturer rules, an action associated with the product is performed. In one example, the action is shipping of physical product 1315 to a distribution facility 1319. In one example, the action is controlling one or more steps of the manufacturing process used to manufacture physical product 1315. In one example, the action is causing or performing transport 1321.

In one embodiment, a method comprises: receiving, from a manufacturer, a printed document (e.g., physical object 1301) including a first encoded image (e.g., encoded image 1303); scanning, by a scanner (e.g., scanner 1305), the first encoded image to obtain first parameters comprising specifications for a product (e.g., physical product 1315) to be made by a manufacturing process; generating, by at least one computing device and using the first parameters, at least one manufacturer rule; storing, in a database (e.g., customer rules database 1313), the at least one manufacturer rule; determining, based on querying the database, whether the product conforms to the at least one manufacturer rule; and in response to determining that the product conforms to the at least one manufacturer rule, causing transport (e.g., transport 1321) of the product to the manufacturer (e.g., a vehicle manufacturer obtaining a memory device from a supplier that operates manufacturing facility 1309).

In one embodiment, a second encoded image (e.g., encoded image 1327) is disposed on the product, or on packaging for the product, when transported, and wherein the second encoded image is configured for scanning by the manufacturer to obtain second parameters including the at least one manufacturer rule.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises controlling, by the at least one computing device in conformance with the at least one manufacturer rule, the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, controlling the manufacturing process comprises controlling an operating characteristic for a manufacturing machine (e.g., manufacturing machine 1311) used in making the product.

In one embodiment, the printed document is a production part approval process (PPAP) document, or a part submission warrant (PSW) document.

In one embodiment, the at least one manufacturer rule is an output from a machine-learning model (e.g., a neural network) that uses the first parameters as inputs. In one example, the machine-learning model is trained using data from the manufacturing process (e.g., data from sensors of manufacturing machine 1311) for prior manufactured products.

In one embodiment, the at least one manufacturer rule is a customer containment rule (CCR) that determines one of several versions of the product that can be shipped to the manufacturer.

In one embodiment, the at least one manufacturer rule is a first customer containment rule (CCR), each of a plurality of CCRs including the first CCR is associated with a respective manufacturer, and each CCR determines a type of the product that is shipped to the respective manufacturer.

In one embodiment, the at least one manufacturer rule relates to at least one of: restricting performance of one or more manufacturing steps in the manufacturing process to a specified manufacturing facility or location; or restricting an age of the product by using a manufactured date restriction.

In one embodiment, the first parameters include a link, the method further comprising accessing, using the link, stored data (e.g., manufacturing data 114 of FIG. 1) associated with the specifications, wherein the at least one manufacturer rule is generated using the stored data.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises: generating a first rule associated with a first step of the manufacturing process, wherein the first rule corresponds to a physical characteristic associated with a manufacturing machine used in the first step; and controlling, based on the first rule, a second step of the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, the physical characteristic is an excursion of the manufacturing machine outside of a predetermined operating limit.

In one embodiment, the first step follows the second step in the manufacturing process, and the method further comprises, after controlling the second step: sending a communication to a computing device indicating that the second step has been controlled based on the first rule.

In one embodiment, a second encoded image is disposed on the product or packaging for the product when transported, and the second encoded image is configured for scanning by the manufacturer to obtain at least one second parameter indicating that the second step has been controlled based on the first rule.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises: generating, using the at least one manufacturer rule, a report for the manufacturer, the report comprising a second encoded image including the first parameters; and sending, over a communication network, the report to at least one of a distribution facility server or a customer facility server.

In one embodiment, transport of the product to the manufacturer comprises transport to a distribution facility (e.g., distribution facility 1319) including the distribution facility server, wherein the first parameters are obtained from scanning the second encoded image at the distribution facility, and wherein the product is transported from the distribution facility to the manufacturer (e.g., customer facility 1329) based on the first parameters obtained from scanning the second encoded image at the distribution facility.

In one embodiment, a system comprises: at least one processing device; and memory containing instructions configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: scan a first encoded image on a physical object to obtain first parameters comprising specifications for a product to be made by a manufacturing process; generate, using the first parameters, at least one manufacturer rule; store, in memory, the at least one manufacturer rule; determine whether the product conforms to the at least one manufacturer rule; and in response to determining that the product conforms to the at least one manufacturer rule, perform at least one action associated with the product.

In one embodiment, the physical object is: a paper or plastic document; a card; a label affixed to the product made by the manufacturing process; a label affixed to a container that holds the product made by the manufacturing process; a machine used in the manufacturing process; or a package for the product made by the manufacturing process, wherein the first encoded image is engraved on the package.

In one embodiment, the at least one manufacturer rule relates to at least one of: chemical processing conditions for making the product; testing processes for testing the product; design parameters for the product; or a material used to build the product.

In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer storage medium stores instructions which, when executed on a computing device, cause the computing device to at least: scan a first encoded image on a physical object to obtain first parameters comprising specifications for a product to be made by a manufacturing process; generate, using the first parameters, at least one manufacturer rule; store, in a database, the at least one manufacturer rule; determine, based on querying the database, whether the product conforms to the at least one manufacturer rule; and in response to determining that the product conforms to the at least one manufacturer rule, perform an action associated with the product.

Updating a Materials Database Based on Scanning of Encoded Images

Various embodiments related to updating a database based on scanning of encoded images are now described below. The generality of the following description is not limited by the various embodiments described above.

For purposes of illustration, some exemplary embodiments are described below in the context of a vehicle manufacturer. However, the methods and systems of the present disclosure are not limited to use in a vehicle manufacturing process. Instead, other embodiments may relate to the manufacture of products for other types of systems (e.g., cloud storage systems, security hardware, etc.).

In one example, the encoded images are scanned to create a bill of materials (BOM). In one example, the BOM is for a product made using a manufacturing process. In one example, the product is a memory device for a vehicle being manufactured by a vehicle manufacturer. In one example, the BOM is a list of raw materials, components, etc., that are used to build the product.

In one example, the encoded images are QR codes on physical objects (e.g., physical components, printed documents, and/or labels). In one example, the manufacturing process is silicon wafer processing for making a memory device for an autonomous automobile.

In one example of a manufacturing process, a vehicle manufacturer specifies the parameters of a flash memory device, prints the specifications out on a paper document (e.g., a PPAP document), and sends it to a supplier of the flash memory device. The supplier does a manual, human review of the paper document, and makes a batch of sample flash memory devices. For making the batch of samples, the supplier creates and/or uses a bill of materials that lists the materials needed to manufacture the memory devices. After the samples are made, and the vehicle manufacturer approves the samples via an approved PSW, then the supplier creates and/or updates the BOM for making the product according to the specifications approved by the vehicle manufacturer.

In various cases, a bill of materials (BOM) is a product structure that is a list of the raw materials, sub-assemblies, intermediate assemblies, sub-components, parts, and the quantities of each needed to manufacture an end product (e.g., a product approved by a vehicle manufacturer via a PSW). In some cases, a bill of materials can be used for communication between manufacturing partners, or can be confined for use within a single manufacturing plant. A bill of materials may be tied to a production order whose issuance may generate reservations for components in the bill of materials that are in stock and requisitions for components that are not in stock.

In one example, a bill of materials is a complete, formally-structured list of the components that make up a product or assembly. The list includes a material identification number of each component, together with the quantity and corresponding unit of measure.

In one example, a BOM is either single-level or multi-level (e.g., stored in a database with a multi-level data structure). For example, a finished material at a parent level contains semi-finished materials as components at a child level, which in turn contain raw materials as components at a grandchild level.

In one example, a BOM can be used in a standard cost calculation for a finished product by adding up the various costs of materials from raw to semi-finished, and then to the finished product.

One problem with existing bills of materials (BOMs) is that the BOMs are used in isolation from other aspects of the overall product manufacturing process and/or related communications with customers (e.g., the vehicle manufacturer above). For example, a supplier will interact with a customer using paper documents such as PPAPs. However, when the supplier is using a bill of material (also sometimes referred to as a build of material), the supplier is focused solely on the production line. For example, there is no linkage between an approved PPAP and a BOM for a product approved for manufacture.

The lack of such linkage between a PPAP and BOM can lead to errors and/or inefficiencies in product manufacturing. For example, there may be human error when manually reading specifications in a paper PPAP and attempting to translate such specifications into materials for listing in BOM. This can cause an error in the BOM, which can lead to a product that fails to meet specifications of the customer and/or fails quality control testing.

Also, the lack of such linkage between a PPAP and BOM can lead to inefficiencies and errors when communicating with material and component suppliers. For example, logistical errors can cause delays and deliveries of materials that are necessary to manufacture a product. These delays can result in failure of a product when another inadequate or insufficient material may be substituted due to the failure to obtain a most-desired material for manufacture. Other failures may be due to shifts or changes in operating characteristics of a manufacturing process that occur over longer periods of time (e.g., the shift or change that occurs due to late delivery of a material may lead to a performance deviation in the final product due to mismatches in materials and optimal corresponding process conditions).

Various embodiments described below provide a technological solution to one or more of the above technical problems. In one embodiment, a computing system directs coordination with subcontractors in a manufacturing process via automating the generation of one or more aspects of a bill of materials (BOM). The generated BOM is used to communicate with, and coordinate logistical delivery of materials from, one or more subcontractors (e.g., a material supplier for a material used in making the above memory device). In one example, the BOM is generated using QR codes printed on paper documents of negotiated manufacturing parameters (e.g., QR codes printed on a production part approval process (PPAP) document and/or an approved part submission warrant (PSW) document, for example as discussed for various embodiments above).

In one embodiment, the QR codes can be scanned by a scanner to obtain parameters that are used to generate the BOM. For example, a parameter obtained from a scanned QR code can be used to query a database to determine a corresponding one or more materials that are used for manufacturing a product. These materials are added to the BOM. The data in the generated BOM can be used to communicate material needs to component suppliers. These suppliers can coordinate logistical delivery of such components as needed for making the product. The generated BOM can also be used to select one of several manufacturing lines based on logistical availability of materials necessary for making a particular product.

In one example, the BOM is a printed document identifying the components of a version of a product. The BOM can be printed to include one or more QR codes. In one example, the BOM includes the QR code that was scanned for generating the BOM. In one example, the BOM can additionally and/or alternatively include a new QR code that is generated based on contents of the BOM.

In one example, the QR code on a BOM can be used by a component supplier. For example, the component supplier can scan the QR code to obtain parameters related to materials to be supplied for making the product.

In one example, the generated BOM can be used to automatically identify component supplier relationships. For example, a material and corresponding data in the BOM can be used to query a database to identify a particular supplier that is most suited for providing that particular material. This suitability can be based on various factors such as availability of components, material characteristics of a component, logistical availability of a component for delivery, etc.

In light of the above, generating a BOM based on scanning a QR code or other encoded image that is on one or more documents associated with a manufacturing process (e.g., a PPAP document) can provide various advantages. For example, the traceability of materials used in making a product to various documents can be improved. For example, the tracking of components provided by component suppliers such as subcontractors can be improved. For example, the identification and tracking of internal technologies and/or materials can be improved. For example, communications with component suppliers can be improved based on more timely data regarding material usage during the manufacturing process.

FIG. 15 shows an example computing system for updating a materials database 1509 using a tracking server 1507 based on data obtained from scanning an encoded image 1503, according to one embodiment. In one example, physical object 1501 can be physical object 102 or physical object 106 of FIG. 1. In one example, tracking server 1507 can be tracking server 1331 of FIG. 13.

In one example, encoded image 1503 is a QR code, and physical object 1501 is a PPAP or PSW printed document. Scanner 1305 is controlled by computing device 1521 and scans encoded image 1503. In one example, scanner 1305 is scanner 110 of FIG. 1. In one example, encoded image 1503 is scanned to obtain parameters associated with specifications for making a product in manufacturing facility 1309. The specifications can be used to determine one or more materials used in a manufacturing process for making the product.

In one embodiment, customer rules (e.g., CCRs) are additionally generated from the encoded image 1503. The generated customer rules are stored in customer rules database 1313.

In one example, the manufactured product is physical product 1517. The manufacturing process used to make physical product 1517 includes the use of manufacturing machine 1311. Physical product 1517 includes an encoded image 1519, which encodes data associated with one or more materials used to manufacture physical product 1517.

In one embodiment, the encoded image 1519 further includes one or more customer rules. In one example, these customer rules are obtained from database 1313 when encoded image 1519 is generated.

After manufacture, physical product 1517 is transported to customer facility 1523. A computing device at customer facility 1523 can control a scanner that is used to scan encoded image 1519. By such scanning, a customer can confirm that one or more materials were used in manufacturing the physical product 1517. Further, the customer can confirm that one or more customer rules were used to control the manufacturing process for the product 1517.

In one embodiment, tracking server 1507 uses communication network 121 to communicate with supplier facility 1515, manufacturing facility 1309, and/or customer facility 1523. In one example, this communication is used to coordinate logistics for the manufacture of physical product 1517.

In one example, manufacturing facility 1309 uses data obtained from scanning encoded image 1503 to communicate one or more material needs to tracking server 1507. These material needs are updated in stored data of materials database 1509. In one example, tracking server 1507 sends a communication to customer facility 1523 regarding a material to be used in making physical product 1517. In reply, customer facility 1523 sends a communication including data regarding the materials be used and/or an alternative material. Tracking server 1507 updates materials database 1509 based on this reply communication.

In one example, tracking server 1507 uses data obtained from scanning encoded image 1503 and/or data from the generated BOM to create and/or update records in materials database 1509 regarding various materials used for the manufacture of the product 1517.

In one embodiment, materials database 1509 stores data regarding components used for manufacture of physical product 1517. Component 1511 is an example of such a component. Component 1511 includes an encoded image 1513. The encoded image 1513 can be added to component 1511 at supplier facility 1515 prior to being shipped to manufacturing facility 1309. Upon receipt, manufacturing facility 1309 can scan encoded image 1513 to obtain data regarding component 1511. After obtaining this data, tracking server 1507 can update materials database 1509.

Tracking server 1507 maintains a supplier database 1505. In one example, database 1505 stores data for various suppliers and corresponding supplier facilities. In one embodiment, data obtained from scanning encoded image 1503 is used to automatically identify a supplier in supplier database 1505. In one example, this identification is used to communicate with the supplier to obtain data regarding one or more materials provided by the supplier.

In one embodiment, tracking server 1507 tracks the manufacture of physical product 1517. This tracking includes tracking usage of materials in the manufacturing process. As materials are used, tracking server 1507 updates materials database 1509.

In one embodiment, tracking server 1507 sends one or more communications to supplier facility 1515 to request data regarding one or more materials that are used for making physical product 1517. Based on a reply communication from supplier facility 1515, tracking server 1507 updates materials database 1509 regarding the one or more materials. In one example, data provided by supplier facility 1515 includes a quantity of inventory, timing for delivery, and/or one or more characteristics of a material or component.

In one embodiment, encoded image 1519 is disposed on a printed document that accompanies physical product 1517, or on packaging for physical product 1517. In one example, encoded image 1519 encodes data regarding changes in material characteristics for one or more materials that occurred during manufacturing. In one example, encoded image 1519 includes data obtained from manufacturing machine 1311 when using one or more materials provided from supplier facility 1515. In one example, tracking server 1507 updates materials database 1509 regarding data obtained from manufacturing machine 1311 as regards the one or more materials.

FIG. 16 shows a method for updating a materials database based on parameters obtained from scanning an encoded image on a physical object, according to one embodiment. For example, the method of FIG. 16 can be implemented in the system of FIGS. 1, 6, 7, 13 and 15.

The method of FIG. 16 can be performed by processing logic that can include hardware (e.g., processing device, circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, hardware of a device, integrated circuit, etc.), software (e.g., instructions run or executed on a processing device), or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the method of FIG. 16 is performed at least in part by one or more processors of supplier server 6150 of FIG. 6 or computing device 1521 of FIG. 15. In one embodiment, supplier server 6150 or computing device 1521 is implemented using the processors and memory of FIG. 8 or 9.

Although shown in a particular sequence or order, unless otherwise specified, the order of the processes can be modified. Thus, the illustrated embodiments should be understood only as examples, and the illustrated processes can be performed in a different order, and some processes can be performed in parallel. Additionally, one or more processes can be omitted in various embodiments. Thus, not all processes are required in every embodiment. Other process flows are possible.

At block 1601, an encoded image on a physical object is scanned to obtain parameters associated with a product made using a manufacturing process. In one example, the physical object is physical object 1501 and the encoded image is encoded image 1503. In one example, the manufacturing process is performed in manufacturing facility 1309 using materials listed in a bill of materials (BOM) stored in materials database 1509, which is updated in real-time during manufacturing by tracking server 1507. In one example, the physical object is a printed PPAP document. In one example, the parameters are associated with materials used to manufacture the product. In one example, the parameters are specifications for manufacturing the product.

At block 1603, based on the obtained parameters from the scanning, data is stored in a database regarding materials used in the manufacturing process to make the product. The materials include one or more components. In one example, the database is materials database 1509. In one example, data from the parameters is used to create a bill of materials. In one example, the obtained parameters are used as inputs to a machine-learning model, which provides an output that identifies one or more materials for adding to a BOM. In one example, the machine-learning model is trained using training data that correlates performance of prior products with the corresponding prior material(s) used to make the product on manufacturing machine 1311. Then, the trained machine-learning model can select a more desirable material for making a product when creating a new BOM based on scanned data.

At block 1605, based on the data stored in the database, a communication is sent to a computing device requesting data regarding the one or more components. In one example, tracking server 1507 sends a communication to supplier facility 1515. The communication requests data regarding a material identified in a bill of materials stored in materials database 1509. In one example, tracking server 1507 obtains information regarding supplier facility 1515 based on querying supplier database 1505. The information is used to generate a communication requesting data regarding the material.

At block 1607, a communication is received that includes the data regarding the one or more components. In one example, tracking server 1507 receives a reply communication from supplier facility 1515 that includes the requested data regarding the material identified in the bill of materials above. In one example, the one or more components are used by manufacturing machine 1311. In one example, the one or more components are required by a rule (e.g., CCR) in customer rules database 1313.

At block 1609, in response to receiving the communication, data regarding the component that is stored in the database is updated. In one example, tracking server 1507 updates data regarding the component that is stored in materials database 1509. In one example, the component is provided from supplier facility 1515.

In one embodiment, a method comprises: scanning, by a scanner (e.g., scanner 1305), an encoded image on a physical object (e.g., physical object 1501) to obtain parameters associated with a product (e.g., physical product 1517) made using a manufacturing process; storing, by a first computing device in a database (e.g., materials database 1509) and based on the obtained parameters, first data regarding materials used in the manufacturing process to make the product, wherein the materials include a first material provided by a supplier (e.g., a supplier that operates supplier facility 1515); sending, based on the stored first data, a communication to a second computing device of the supplier requesting second data regarding the first material; receiving, by the first computing device over a network, a communication including the second data; in response to receiving the communication, updating the stored first data regarding the first material to provide third data stored in the database; tracking the manufacture of the product, including tracking usage of the first material in the manufacturing process; and updating, based on tracking the usage of the first material, the stored third data.

In one embodiment, the second data comprises at least one of a quantity of inventory of the first material, timing for delivery of the first material, or a characteristic of the first material.

In one embodiment, the encoded image is a first encoded image, and the method further comprises disposing a second encoded image (e.g., encoded image 1519) on the product or on packaging for the product, wherein the second encoded image includes at least a portion of the first data regarding materials used in the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, the physical object is a first printed document, and the encoded image is a first encoded image. The method further comprises generating a second printed document including a second encoded image. The second encoded image includes at least a portion of the first data regarding materials used in the manufacturing process. In one example, the second printed document is sent with physical product 1517 to customer facility 1523.

In one embodiment, the first encoded image includes at least one customer containment rule (CCR). In one example, the CCR is stored in customer rules database 1313.

In one embodiment, the first data regarding materials used in the manufacturing process to make the product comprises respective quantities for at least one of a raw material, a component, a sub-assembly, an intermediate assembly, a sub-component, or a part.

In one embodiment, the supplier is a first supplier, and the method further comprises automatically identifying, based on the parameters obtained from scanning the encoded image, a plurality of suppliers of materials used in the manufacturing process, wherein the plurality of suppliers includes the first supplier. In one example, the plurality of suppliers are stored in supplier database 1505.

In one embodiment, the first data regarding the materials is stored as a plurality of records in the database, and the first data comprises an identification and a quantity for each of the materials.

In one embodiment, the first data regarding the materials is stored using a data structure having multiple levels, each of first levels of the multiple levels corresponds to a respective finished material, and each of a respective second level under one of the first levels corresponds to semi-finished materials or components of the respective finished material.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises: determining, by the first computing device and based on scanning the encoded image, an inventory of the first material; and in response to determining the inventory of the first material, updating the stored first data to indicate a quantity of the first material to reserve for use in making the product.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises, based on determining the inventory of the first material, sending, to the second computing device of the supplier, a communication requesting a quantity of the first material to be transported for use in making the product.

In one embodiment, the physical object is: a paper or plastic document; a card; a label affixed to the product; a label affixed to a container that holds the product; a machine used in the manufacturing process; or a package for the product, wherein the first image is engraved on the package.

In one embodiment, the second data regarding the first material comprises at least one of: one or more chemical processing conditions for using the first material in the manufacturing process; a testing process for testing the first material; or one or more design parameters for the first material.

In one embodiment, a system comprises: a scanner configured to scan an encoded image on a physical object to obtain parameters associated with a product made using a manufacturing process; at least one processing device; and memory containing instructions configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: store, in a database and based on the parameters obtained from scanning the encoded image, first data regarding materials used in the manufacturing process to make the product, wherein the materials include a first material; send, based on the stored first data, a communication to a computing device requesting second data regarding the first material; receive, over a network from the computing device, a communication including the second data; and in response to receiving the communication, update the stored first data regarding the first material to provide third data stored in the database.

In one embodiment, the instructions are further configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: track the manufacture of the product, including tracking usage of the first material in the manufacturing process; and update, based on tracking the usage of the first material, the stored third data.

In one embodiment, the encoded image is a first encoded image, and the instructions are further configured to instruct the at least one processing device to dispose a second encoded image on the product or on packaging for the product. The second encoded image includes at least a portion of the first data regarding materials used in the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, the second data regarding the first material comprises at least one of: one or more chemical processing conditions for using the first material in the manufacturing process; a testing process for testing the first material; or one or more design parameters for the first material.

In one embodiment, the encoded image includes at least one customer containment rule (CCR).

In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer storage medium stores instructions which, when executed on at least one processing device, cause the at least one processing device to at least: scan an encoded image on a physical object to obtain parameters associated with a product made using a manufacturing process; store, in a database and based on the obtained parameters, first data regarding materials used in the manufacturing process to make the product, wherein the materials include a first material; send, based on the stored first data, a communication to a computing device requesting second data regarding the first material; receive a communication including the second data; and in response to receiving the communication, update the stored first data regarding the first material to provide third data stored in the database.

In one embodiment, the instructions further cause the at least one processing device to: track the manufacture of the product, including tracking usage of the first material in the manufacturing process; and update, based on tracking the usage of the first material, the stored third data.

Updating Product Life Cycle Data Based on Scanning of Encoded Images

Various embodiments related to updating product life cycle data in a database based on scanning of encoded images are now described below. The generality of the following description is not limited by the various embodiments described above.

For purposes of illustration, some exemplary embodiments are described below in the context of a vehicle manufacturer. However, the methods and systems of the present disclosure are not limited to use in a vehicle manufacturing process. Instead, other embodiments may relate to the manufacture of products for other types of systems (e.g., cloud storage systems, security hardware, etc.).

In one example, the encoded images are scanned to generate EOL notifications. In one example, the EOL notification is for a product made using a manufacturing process. In one example, the product is a memory device for a vehicle being manufactured by a vehicle manufacturer. In one example, the EOL notification identifies a product (e.g., by an identification number) and provides an end-of-sale date and/or end-of-support date (e.g., the date for which access to support for a product will end, where the support is provided over a computer network in the form of software updates, patches, etc.). Other dates associated with EOL for a product can be provided in the EOL notification.

In one example, the encoded images are QR codes on physical objects (e.g., physical components, printed documents, and/or labels). In one example, the manufacturing process is silicon wafer processing for making a memory device for an autonomous automobile.

In one example, an EOL notification is provided for a product supplied to customers. The notification indicates that a vendor of the product considers the product to be at the end of its useful life. For example, the vendor may plan to end product sales and/or support for the product. In some cases, support for a product can include providing spare parts, technical support, and/or service.

In some cases, a vendor will distribute an end-of-life notification to customers via electronic mail or other electronic communication. In some cases, a vendor provides monthly or other periodic notifications to customers.

In one example, after a product has reached an end-of-sale date, a vendor provides bug fixes, maintenance releases, workarounds, and/or patches for critical bugs reported by a customer on a website of the vendor. In some cases, the vendor provides software upgrades to correct reported problems. In some cases, a vendor provides a notification to customers that spares or replacement parts for hardware products will be available for defined period (e.g., 5 years) from the end-of-sale date.

In one example of a manufacturing process, a vehicle manufacturer specifies the parameters of a flash memory device, prints the specifications out on a paper document (e.g., a PPAP document), and sends it to a supplier of the flash memory device. The supplier does a manual, human review of the paper document, and makes a batch of sample flash memory devices. In some cases, the batch of samples may correspond to a product for which EOL life cycle data may exist. The supplier can provide an EOL notification to the customer for such product when identified. After the samples are made, and the vehicle manufacturer approves the samples via an approved PSW, then the supplier generates an EOL notification and provides it to the vehicle manufacturer.

One problem with existing EOL notifications is that they are often used in isolation from other aspects of the overall product manufacturing process and/or related communications with customers (e.g., the vehicle manufacturer above). For example, a supplier will interact with a customer using paper documents such as PPAPs. However, there is no linkage between an approved PPAP and an EOL notification for a product that has been approved for manufacture.

The lack of such linkage between a PPAP and EOL notification can lead to errors and/or inefficiencies in product manufacturing. For example, there may be human error when manually reading specifications in a paper PPAP and attempting to use such specifications to determine life cycle data (e.g., to determine an end-of-sale date). In one example, this can cause an error in scheduling products for use as parts in a vehicle, which can lead to a product that fails to meet specifications of the customer, fails quality control testing, or that cannot complete production due to a component reaching end-of-life too early in the vehicle manufacturing process.

Also, the lack of such linkage between a PPAP and EOL notification can lead to inefficiencies and errors when communicating with customers to coordinate manufacturing and/or shipment logistics. For example, logistical errors can cause deliveries of materials that have inadequate useful life remaining due to an EOL date (e.g., an end-of-sale date for a memory device within 2 years of an approved PSW for a vehicle manufacturing run by a customer that continues for 4 years). These logistical errors can result in failure of a product or inability to continue manufacturing.

Various embodiments described below provide a technological solution to one or more of the above technical problems. In one embodiment, a method includes storing, in a first database, first data regarding a life cycle of a product made using a manufacturing process; scanning an encoded image on a physical object to obtain at least one parameter associated with the product; querying, using the obtained at least one parameter, the first database to obtain the first data; generating a communication that includes the first data; and sending, to a server over a network, the communication, wherein the server is configured to update a second database based on the first data.

In one example, the generated communication is an EOL notification that is generated using QR codes printed on paper documents of negotiated manufacturing parameters (e.g., QR codes printed on a production part approval process (PPAP) document and/or an approved part submission warrant (PSW) document, for example as discussed for various embodiments above).

In one example, the EOL notification is a printed document that includes an encoded image that encodes life cycle data (e.g., an end-of-support date). In one example, the EOL notification itself is encoded in a QR code that is placed on packaging for a product. In one example, the EOL notification is encoded in a QR code that is on the product itself (e.g., engraved on the product).

In one embodiment, the QR codes can be scanned by a scanner to obtain parameters that are used to generate the EOL notification. For example, a parameter obtained from a scanned QR code can be used to query a database to determine corresponding life cycle data associated with a product. This data can be added to the EOL notification. The data in the generated EOL notification can be used to communicate scheduling information to customers. These customers can coordinate logistical delivery of product from a supplier. The life cycle data can also be used to select one of several manufacturing lines based on logistical needs of a customer for making a particular product (e.g., a vehicle that uses a memory device).

In other cases, the EOL notification is generated based on data included in the encoded image and obtained from scanning. In one example, the EOL notification is generated without the need to query a database and/or to access another computing device prior to generating the EOL notification.

In one example, the EOL notification is a printed document identifying a version of a product approaching end-of-life. The EOL notification can be printed to include one or more QR codes. In one example, the EOL notification includes the QR code that was scanned for generating the EOL notification. In one example, the EOL notification can additionally and/or alternatively include a new QR code that is generated based on life cycle data obtained from a database and/or other contents of the EOL notification.

In one example, the QR code on an EOL notification can be used by a customer. For example, the customer can scan the QR code to obtain parameters related to differing end-of-life timings for various versions of a product (e.g., versions made at different manufacturing facilities).

In light of the above, generating an EOL notification based on scanning a QR code or other encoded image that is on one or more documents associated with a manufacturing process (e.g., a PPAP document) can provide various advantages. For example, logistical coordination between supplier and customer can be improved. For example, communications with customers can be improved based on more timely data regarding life cycle data as relates to a product.

FIG. 17 shows an example computing system for generating a communication that includes life cycle data based on one or more parameters obtained from scanning an encoded image 1703 on a physical object 1701, according to one embodiment. A server 1707 stores life cycle data in a life cycle database 1709. The life cycle data relates to a life cycle of a product made using a manufacturing process in manufacturing facility 1309, such as for example using manufacturing machine 1311.

In one example, physical object 1701 can be physical object 102 or physical object 106 of FIG. 1. In one example, server 1707 can be computing device 112 of FIG. 1, tracking server 1331 of FIG. 13, or tracking server 1507 of FIG. 15.

Scanner 1305 scans encoded image 1703 to obtain one or more parameters associated with the product. Scanner 1305 can be controlled by a computing device 1705, which communicates with server 1707 via communication network 121. Computing device 1705 uses the parameters obtained from scanning encoded image 1703 to query life cycle database 1709.

In response to this query, computing device 1705 obtains life cycle data regarding the product. In one example, the life cycle data is a date associated with termination of manufacture of the product. For example, the date can be an end-of-sale date for the product, or a timing deadline associated with end-of-life (e.g., a date that computer access and/or software updates related to the product will end).

Computing device 1705 generates a communication that includes the life cycle data obtained from life cycle database 1709. In one example, the communication is an electronic mail message, or other form of electronic communication.

Computing device 1705 sends the communication over communication network 121 to a server 1715 of customer facility 1329. In response to receiving the communication, server 1717 updates a scheduling database 1717 based on the life cycle data received in the communication. In one example, scheduling database 1717 updates database records based on a date associated with a termination of manufacture of the product that is included in the communication.

In one example, the communication includes a manufacturer rule obtained from customer rules database 1313. In one example, the communication includes one or more materials used in the manufacturing process that have been obtained from materials database 1509.

In one embodiment, the product is physical product 1711, which includes encoded image 1713 on the product itself (e.g., engraved or laser-scribed). In one example, encoded image 1713 includes life cycle data obtained from life cycle database 1709. In one example, encoded image 1713 contains the same life cycle data that was sent to server 1715 in the communication above.

In some cases, a printed document 1719 accompanies physical product 1711 during transport to distribution facility 1319. Printed document 1719 includes an encoded image 1721. In one example, encoded image 1721 includes the same life cycle data as encoded image 1713. Distribution facility 1319 can scan encoded image 1713 and/or encoded image 1721 to direct logistical transport of physical product 1711 to customer facility 1329 (e.g., shipment instructions can be automatically generated based on such scanned data).

In one embodiment, encoded image 1713 and/or encoded image 1721 include a link to a computing device that stores life cycle data. In one example, the computing device is computing device 1705 or server 1707. In one example, the link permits access by a mobile device that scans the encoded image 1713, 1721 to life cycle data stored in database 1709 that corresponds to the product 1711. In one example, the link provides the mobile device access to an end-of-sale and/or end-of-support date.

In one embodiment, encoded image 1713, 1721 includes data regarding one or more spare parts for physical product 1711. In one example, the data includes a date associated with an end-of-life for each of the spare parts.

In one embodiment, the data sent in the communication to server 1715 above includes a manufacturer rule that relates to restricting an age of physical product 1711 using a manufactured date restriction. In one example, the data sent in the communication to server 1715 further includes a date associated with termination of manufacture of physical product 1711. In one example, customer facility 1329 compares the date associated with termination of manufacture to the manufactured date restriction. In response this comparison, customer facility 1329 may send a communication to server 1707, computing device 1705, and/or a computing device of manufacturing facility 1309.

In one embodiment, the data sent in the communication to server 1715 above additionally and/or alternatively includes a manufacturer rule that relates to restricting performance of one or more manufacturing steps in the manufacturing process above to a specified manufacturing facility or location. The manufacturer rule can be compared to life cycle data in the communication.

In one example, encoded image 1703 is a QR code, and physical object 1701 is a PPAP or PSW printed document. In one example, encoded image 1703 is scanned to obtain parameters associated with specifications for making a product in manufacturing facility 1309. The specifications can be used to determine one or more materials used in a manufacturing process for making the product.

In one embodiment, customer rules (e.g., CCRs) are additionally generated from the encoded image 1703. The generated customer rules are stored in customer rules database 1313.

In one embodiment, the encoded image 1713, 1721 further includes one or more customer rules. In one example, these customer rules are obtained from database 1313 and/or life cycle database 1709 when encoded image 1713, 1721 is generated.

After manufacture, physical product 1711 is transported to customer facility 1329. A computing device at customer facility 1329 can control a scanner that is used to scan encoded image 1713, 1721. By such scanning, a customer can confirm that one or more materials were used in manufacturing the physical product 1711. Further, the customer can confirm that one or more customer rules were used to control the manufacturing process for the product 1711.

FIG. 18 shows a method for updating product life cycle data in a database based on scanning of encoded images, according to one embodiment. For example, the method of FIG. 18 can be implemented in the system of FIGS. 1, 6, 7, 13, 15 and 17.

The method of FIG. 18 can be performed by processing logic that can include hardware (e.g., processing device, circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, hardware of a device, integrated circuit, etc.), software (e.g., instructions run or executed on a processing device), or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the method of FIG. 18 is performed at least in part by one or more processors of supplier server 6150 of FIG. 6, computing device 1521 of FIG. 15, or server 1707 of FIG. 17. In one embodiment, supplier server 6150 or computing device 1521 is implemented using the processors and memory of FIG. 8 or 9.

Although shown in a particular sequence or order, unless otherwise specified, the order of the processes can be modified. Thus, the illustrated embodiments should be understood only as examples, and the illustrated processes can be performed in a different order, and some processes can be performed in parallel. Additionally, one or more processes can be omitted in various embodiments. Thus, not all processes are required in every embodiment. Other process flows are possible.

At block 1801, data regarding a life cycle of a product is stored in a database. The product is made using a manufacturing process. In one example, the product is physical product 1711 and the database is life cycle database 1709.

At block 1803, an encoded image on a physical object is scanned to obtain at least one parameter associated with the product. In one example, the encoded image is encoded image 1703.

At block 1805, the database is queried using the one or more parameters obtained from scanning the encoded image. The database is queried to obtain the stored data regarding the life cycle of the product. In one example, computing device 1705 sends a query to server 1707 regarding life cycle data stored in life cycle database 1709.

At block 1807, a communication is generated that includes the data obtained in response to the query. In one example, computing device 1705 generates an electronic mail message.

At block 1809, the communication is sent to a server over a network. The server is configured to update another database (different from the above database) based on the data included in the communication. In one example, the electronic mail message is sent to server 1715. In response to receiving the electronic mail message, server 1715 updates scheduling database 1717 based on life cycle data in the message.

In one embodiment, a method comprises: storing, in a first database (e.g., life cycle database 1709), first data regarding a life cycle of a product (e.g., physical product 1711) made using a manufacturing process; scanning an encoded image (e.g., encoded image 1703) on a physical object to obtain at least one parameter associated with the product; querying, using the obtained at least one parameter, the first database to obtain the first data; generating a communication that includes the first data; and sending, to a server (e.g., server 1715) over a network, the communication, wherein the server is configured to update a second database (e.g., scheduling database 1717) based on the first data.

In one embodiment, updating the second database includes recording a date associated with termination of manufacture of the product.

In one embodiment, the first data includes the date associated with termination of manufacture.

In one embodiment, the first data includes data regarding at least one of a material used in the manufacturing process to make the product, or a manufacturer rule.

In one embodiment, the first data includes the manufacturer rule, and the manufacturer rule relates to at least one of: restricting performance of one or more manufacturing steps in the manufacturing process to a specified manufacturing facility or location; or restricting an age of the product by using a manufactured date restriction.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises comparing the date associated with termination of manufacture of the product to the manufactured date restriction.

In one embodiment, the encoded image is a first encoded image, and the method further comprises: generating a printed document including a second encoded image (e.g., encoded image 1721) that includes the first data; and causing transport of the product to a storage facility (e.g., distribution facility 1319, or customer facility 1329), the printed document (e.g., printed document 1719) accompanying the product when transported.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises causing transport of the product to a physical facility. The encoded image or a different encoded image is on packaging for the product or a printed document that accompanies the product when transported, and the encoded image or different encoded image includes a link to a computing device that stores the first data.

In one embodiment, the encoded image is a first encoded image, and the method further comprises causing transport of the product, wherein a second encoded image is on packaging for the product or a printed document that accompanies the product when transported, and wherein the second encoded image includes data regarding at least one spare part for the product.

In one embodiment, the data regarding the at least one spare part includes a final date associated with shipment of the at least one spare part.

In one embodiment, the physical object is a printed document.

In one embodiment, the first data includes at least one of a date associated with termination of manufacture of the product, a date associated with termination of shipment of the product, or a date associated with termination of network access to data associated with the product.

In one embodiment, a system comprises: a scanner (e.g., scanner 1305) configured to scan an encoded image on a physical object to obtain at least one parameter associated with a product made using a manufacturing process; a database configured to store first data regarding a life cycle of the product; at least one processing device; and memory containing instructions configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: query, using the at least one parameter obtained from scanning the encoded image, the database to obtain the first data; generate a communication that includes the first data; and send, over a network, the communication to a computing device.

In one embodiment, the product is a memory device to be included in a manufactured vehicle; and the computing device is configured to, in response to receiving the communication, update a manufacturing schedule for the manufactured vehicle.

In one embodiment, the first data includes at least one of data regarding a substitute for the product, or a link to data regarding a substitute for the product.

In one embodiment, the first data includes data regarding a usage history of the product.

In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer storage medium stores instructions which, when executed on at least one processing device (e.g., computing device 1705, or server 1707), cause the at least one processing device to at least: scan an encoded image on a physical object to obtain a link to first data associated with a life cycle of a product made using a manufacturing process; obtain, using the link, the first data; generate a communication that includes the first data; and send, to a computing device over a network, the communication.

In one embodiment, the first data includes an end date associated with the life cycle of the product.

In one embodiment, the encoded image is a first encoded image, and the instructions further cause the at least one processing device to generate a second encoded image that includes the first data.

In one embodiment, the second encoded image is configured for placement on at least one of the product, packaging for the product, or a physical document for transport with the product.

Structured Server Access Based on Scanning of Encoded Images

Various embodiments related to structured access to a server or other computing device to obtain data based on scanning of encoded images are now described below. The generality of the following description is not limited by the various embodiments described above.

For purposes of illustration, some exemplary embodiments are described below in the context of a vehicle manufacturer. However, the methods and systems of the present disclosure are not limited to use in a vehicle manufacturing process. Instead, other embodiments may relate to the manufacture of products for other types of systems (e.g., cloud storage systems, security hardware, etc.).

In one example, the encoded images are scanned to access manufacturing data stored in a database at the server. In one example, the manufacturing data is for configuring one or more manufacturing machines used in a manufacturing process to make a product. In one example, the product is a memory device for a vehicle being manufactured by a vehicle manufacturer. In one example, the manufacturing data includes data regarding processing conditions, device parameters, materials, components, etc., that are used to build the product.

In one example, the encoded images are QR codes on physical objects (e.g., physical components, printed documents, and/or labels). In one example, the manufacturing process is silicon wafer processing for making a memory device for an autonomous automobile.

In one example of the manufacturing process, a vehicle manufacturer specifies the parameters of a flash memory device, prints the specifications out on a paper document (e.g., a PPAP document), and sends it to a supplier of the flash memory device. The supplier does a manual, human review of the paper document, and makes a batch of sample flash memory devices. For making the batch of samples, the supplier creates and/or uses a bill of materials that lists the materials needed to manufacture the memory devices. After the samples are made, and the vehicle manufacturer approves the samples via an approved PSW, then the supplier creates and/or updates the manufacturing data stored at the server (e.g., at a manufacturing server in a manufacturing database) for the manufacturing process to conform to the specifications approved by the vehicle manufacturer.

One problem with existing manufacturing processes is that manufacturing data (e.g., data used to configure steps in the manufacturing process) is used in isolation from other aspects of the overall product manufacturing process and/or related communications with customers (e.g., the vehicle manufacturer above). For example, a supplier will configure a manufacturing machine using paper documents such as PPAPs. However, this can lead to human error in configuring a particular machine.

The above manual machine configuration can lead to errors and/or inefficiencies in product manufacturing. For example, there may be human error when manually reading specifications in a paper PPAP and attempting to translate such specifications into process control conditions for the manufacturing process. This can cause an error in control, which can lead to a product that fails to meet specifications of the customer and/or fails quality control testing.

Also, existing approaches using manual configuration of a manufacturing process can lead to inefficiencies and errors when communicating with material and component suppliers. For example, logistical errors can cause delays and deliveries of materials that are necessary to manufacture a product. These delays can result in failure of a product when another inadequate or insufficient material may be substituted due to the failure to obtain a most-desired material for manufacture. Other failures may be due to shifts or changes in operating characteristics of a manufacturing process that occur due to slow, inefficient, or error-prone manual machine configuration.

Various embodiments described below provide a technological solution to one or more of the above technical problems. In one embodiment, a method comprises: storing, by a server (e.g., the manufacturing server above), data associated with at least one manufacturing step of a manufacturing process used to make a product; scanning an encoded image on a physical object (e.g., a PPAP document) to obtain at least one parameter associated with the product; accessing, using the at least one parameter, the stored data to obtain first data associated with the manufacturing process; and configuring, based on the first data, the at least one manufacturing step. In one example, manufacturing data is accessed in a database by sending a query to a server, where the query uses parameters scanned from QR codes printed on paper documents of negotiated manufacturing parameters (e.g., QR codes printed on a production part approval process (PPAP) document and/or an approved part submission warrant (PSW) document, for example as discussed for various embodiments above).

In one embodiment, the QR codes can be scanned by a scanner to obtain parameters that are used to access manufacturing data stored at a manufacturing server (e.g., a server that also maintains materials database 1509 as described above). For example, a parameter obtained from a scanned QR code can be used to query a database to determine parameters for use in configuring a manufacturing machine. The accessed manufacturing data can also be used to select one of several manufacturing lines based on logistical availability of materials necessary for making a particular product.

In one example, the accessed manufacturing data can be used by a component supplier. For example, the component supplier can receive data based on scanning the QR code that relate to materials to be supplied for making the product.

In light of the above, structured server access based on scanning of encoded images can provide various advantages. For example, control of steps in a manufacturing process can be improved. For example, the identification, tracking, and/or control of internal technologies and/or materials used in the manufacturing process can be improved. For example, communications with component suppliers can be improved based on more timely data regarding material usage for the manufacturing process.

FIG. 19 shows an example computing system for accessing a manufacturing database 1909 based on scanning of an encoded image 1903, according to one embodiment. Manufacturing database 1909 is maintained by manufacturing server 1907. In some embodiments, manufacturing server 1907 can further maintain customer rules database 1313 and/or materials database 1509.

Scanner 1305 scans encoded image 1903, which is on physical object 1901. Scanner 1305 is controlled by computing device 1905, and provides one or more parameters to the computing device 1905 that are obtained by scanning encoded image 1903. Encoded image 104 of FIG. 1 is an example of encoded image 1903.

Computing device 1905 communicates with manufacturing server 1907 over communication network 121. Computing device 1905 sends a communication to manufacturing server 1907 that includes a query used to obtain data from manufacturing database 1909. The query includes and/or is based on the one or more parameters obtained from encoded image 1903.

Manufacturing database 1909 stores data associated with one or more manufacturing steps of a manufacturing process used to make physical product 1915 in manufacturing facility 1911. The above query is used to access the stored data in manufacturing database 1909 in order to obtain data associated with the manufacturing process. In one example, the manufacturing process is manufacturing process 122 of FIG. 1.

Manufacturing machines 1913 are used to implement the manufacturing steps of the manufacturing process. Computing device 1905 uses the data obtained in response to the above query to generate one or more communications to manufacturing machines 1913 via communication network 121. Each of the communications is used to configure one or more steps of the manufacturing process. In one example, manufacturing data from database 1909 is included in the communication. In one example, the manufacturing data is used to generate new control data that is sent to one of manufacturing machines 1913. In one example, the control data configures the operation of the manufacturing machine 1913.

Sensors 1921 of manufacturing machines 1913 are used to collect data during manufacture of product. In one example, data is collected for a prior product and stored in manufacturing database 1909. This data is then later correlated to a new product being made, and can then be used to configure one or more machines for making the new product.

In one example, data is collected from sensors 1921 during manufacture of a new product. The data is stored in manufacturing database 1909, and can be accessed during manufacture based on scanning of encoded image 1903 (e.g., scanning using a mobile device of a machine operator when a new or replacement component is ready for use in continued manufacture of the new product). In one example, this real-time data is sent in a communication to customer facility server 132.

In one embodiment, the configuration of the manufacturing machines 1913 using the manufacturing data from database 1909 is performed prior to manufacturing physical product 1915. In another embodiment, configuration of the manufacturing machines 1913 can be performed during manufacture.

Encoded image 1917 can be placed on physical product 1915 and/or on packaging for physical product 1915. Encoded image 1917 can also be placed on a printed document that accompanies physical product 1915. Encoded image 128 of FIG. 1 is an example of encoded image 1917.

After manufacture, physical product 1915 is transported to a distribution facility or a customer facility. Distribution facility server 130 at the distribution facility can be used to scan encoded image 1917. Customer facility server 132 at the customer facility can be used to scan encoded image 1917. In each case, the scanning can be performed by a mobile device such as described above, or by other types of scanners (e.g., QR code scanners).

In one embodiment, manufacturing database 1909 stores data received from customer facility server 132 by a communication sent to manufacturing server 1907 via communication network 121. This data can include an identifier for a product that is encoded in encoded image 1903 and/are encoded image 1917. This data can further include manufacturing requirements for the product. These manufacturing requirements can be used to configure manufacture machines 1913 as discussed above. These manufacturing requirements can be accessed in manufacturing database 1909 by computing device 1905 based on scanning encoded image 1903, as discussed above. Additionally and/or alternatively, distribution facility server 130 can provide data regarding the product to manufacturing server 1907 for storage in manufacturing database 1909, similarly as for customer facility server 132.

FIG. 20 shows an example of a manufacturing process that uses various manufacturing machines at each of several manufacturing steps, according to one embodiment. In one example, the manufacturing process is manufacturing process 122 of FIG. 1. In one example, the manufacturing steps are the manufacturing steps illustrated in FIG. 2.

In one embodiment, the manufacturing steps include fabrication 202, probe 204, assembly 206, test 208, and transport 210. In one example, these steps are implemented according to specifications 124. One or more of these steps can include corresponding rules 203, 205, 207, 209, and 211. These rules can customize and or further constrain manufacturing requirements for a particular product. For example, these rules can be CCRs for a particular customer. For example, these rules can specify the versions of products that can be shipped to certain customers. In one example, the product can be transported to a customer using one of various shipment options (e.g., A or B) selected based on manufacturing data from database 1909.

In one embodiment, an order of use of manufacturing machines in the manufacturing process is configured based on manufacturing data accessed from manufacturing database 1909, as discussed above. In one example, the order of use is configured as Machines A, D, G, H. In another example, the order is configured as C, E, F, H. Any of various orders can be used for a given product. In one example, the order is configured and implemented by manufacturing facility server 116 in manufacturing process 122. Manufacturing data 114 can be updated based on data retrieved from manufacturing database 1909 by manufacturing server 1907. In one example, manufacturing server 1907 can send this data to manufacturing facility server 116 over communication network 121.

In one embodiment, rules 203, 205, 207, 209, and/or 211 are updated based on data accessed and obtained from manufacturing database 1909 based on scanning of encoded image 1903, as discussed above.

FIG. 21 shows a method for structured access to a server to obtain data based on scanning of an encoded image, according to one embodiment. For example, the method of FIG. 21 can be implemented in the system of FIGS. 1, 6, 7, 13, 15, 17, and 19.

The method of FIG. 21 can be performed by processing logic that can include hardware (e.g., processing device, circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, hardware of a device, integrated circuit, etc.), software (e.g., instructions run or executed on a processing device), or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the method of FIG. 21 is performed at least in part by one or more processors of supplier server 6150 of FIG. 6, computing device 1521 of FIG. 15, server 1707 of FIG. 17, or computing device 1905 and/or manufacturing server 1907 of FIG. 19. In one embodiment, supplier server 6150, computing device 1521, computing device 1905, or manufacturing server 1907 is implemented using the processors and memory of FIG. 8 or 9.

Although shown in a particular sequence or order, unless otherwise specified, the order of the processes can be modified. Thus, the illustrated embodiments should be understood only as examples, and the illustrated processes can be performed in a different order, and some processes can be performed in parallel. Additionally, one or more processes can be omitted in various embodiments. Thus, not all processes are required in every embodiment. Other process flows are possible.

At block 2101, data is stored. The data is associated with one or more manufacturing steps of a manufacturing process used to make a product. In one example, the stored data is manufacturing data stored in manufacturing database 1909. In one example, the manufacturing steps are the steps illustrated in FIG. 20. In one example, the product is physical product 1915.

At block 2103, an encoded image on a physical object is scanned. The encoded image is scanned to obtain one or more parameters associated with the product. In one example, the encoded image is encoded image 1903, and the physical object is physical object 1901. In one example, the parameters include specifications for making the product. In one example, the parameters include processing conditions and/or device characteristics. In one example, the parameters include a unique identifier of the product and/or a PPAP document that includes the specifications.

At block 2105, using one or more of these parameters, the stored data is accessed to obtain data associated with the manufacturing process. In one example, the unique identifier is used to send a query to manufacturing database 1909 to obtain manufacturing data used to configure one or more manufacturing machines.

At block 2107, based on the obtained data associated with the manufacturing process, the one or more manufacturing steps are configured. In one example, the obtained manufacturing data above is sent by manufacturing server 1907 over communication network 121 to manufacturing machines 1913 and used to configure the operation of manufacturing machines 1913 (e.g., configure by a firmware or other software update previously obtained over communication network 121 from customer facility server 132 and stored in database 1909).

In one embodiment, a method comprises: storing, by a server (e.g., manufacturing server 1907), data associated with at least one manufacturing step of a manufacturing process (e.g., manufacturing process 122) used to make a product (e.g., physical product 1915); scanning an encoded image (e.g., encoded image 1903) on a physical object to obtain at least one parameter associated with the product; accessing, using the at least one parameter, the stored data to obtain first data associated with the manufacturing process; and configuring, based on the first data, the at least one manufacturing step.

In one embodiment, configuring the at least one manufacturing step comprises selecting a processing order for a plurality of manufacturing machines (e.g., manufacturing machines 1913) used in the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, configuring the at least one manufacturing step comprises configuring at least one manufacturing machine used in the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, the first data is data obtained from at least one sensor (e.g., sensors 1921) of at least one manufacturing machine used to manufacture the product.

In one embodiment, the first data is for prior products made using the manufacturing process, and configuring the at least one manufacturing step comprises configuring, using the first data, at least one manufacturing machine used in the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, configuring the at least one manufacturing machine comprises sending, by the server, at least a portion of the stored data to the at least one manufacturing machine.

In one embodiment, sending the portion of the stored data comprises sending at least one of: data obtained from at least one sensor of a manufacturing machine used in the manufacturing process; data obtained from at least one measurement of a prior product during manufacture of the prior product; or data obtained from testing a prior product during the manufacturing process.

In one embodiment, the at least one parameter includes a unique identifier that corresponds to specifications for making the product.

In one embodiment, the specifications comprise at least one of: chemical processing conditions; processes for testing the product; design parameters for the product; or materials used to build the product.

In one embodiment, the physical object is: a production part approval process (PPAP) document that includes the specifications; a part submission warrant (PSW) document that approves the specifications; or a product change notification (PCN) document that updates the specifications.

In one embodiment, the physical object is the PPAP document; at least one manufacturing machine is used in the manufacturing process; and configuring the at least one manufacturing step comprises configuring the at least one manufacturing machine in accordance with requirements specified in the PPAP document.

In one embodiment, the first data comprises at least one identifier for at least one material used in the manufacturing process; and configuring the at least one manufacturing step comprises selecting, based on the at least one identifier, at least one of a manufacturing machine or a processing condition.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises: generating, based on the configured at least one manufacturing step, data regarding at least one characteristic of the product; and sending, to a computing device, a communication that includes the data regarding the at least one characteristic.

In one embodiment, accessing the stored data to obtain the first data comprises correlating the at least one parameter to second data stored by the server for one or more prior products made using the manufacturing process, and the second data comprises at least one characteristic of the prior products.

In one embodiment, the physical object is a component used to make the product using a manufacturing machine; and configuring the at least one manufacturing step comprises sending a communication that includes the first data to the manufacturing machine. The first data is used to configure operation of the manufacturing machine.

In one embodiment, a system comprises: a scanner (e.g., scanner 1305) configured to scan encoded images on physical objects; a database (e.g., manufacturing database 1909) configured to store data associated with at least one manufacturing step of a manufacturing process used to make a product; at least one processing device; and memory containing instructions configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: scan, using the scanner, an encoded image on a physical object (e.g., physical object 1901) to obtain at least one parameter associated with the product; access, in the database and using the at least one parameter, the stored data to obtain first data; and configure, based on the first data, the at least one manufacturing step.

In one embodiment, the database is a materials database (e.g., materials database 1509); the first data comprises data regarding a component used to make the product; and the instructions are further configured to instruct the at least one processing device to send a communication to a computing device of a supplier of the component. The communication includes the first data.

In one embodiment, the first data includes data regarding at least one of scheduling or logistics for transport of the product after manufacture (e.g., shipment option A or shipment option B of FIG. 20), and the instructions are further configured to instruct the at least one processing device to send a communication to a computing device (e.g., distribution facility server 130 or customer facility server 132). The communication includes the data regarding scheduling or logistics.

In one embodiment, the at least one parameter includes a unique identifier that corresponds to specifications (e.g., temperatures, materials, machining, packaging, testing, electrical characteristics, etc.) for making the product, and the instructions are further configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: obtain, using the identifier, second data regarding at least one of a characteristic or status (e.g., a status and/or time of completion of a manufacturing step, and/or a shipment date from a facility location) of the product; and send a communication to a customer facility server. The communication includes the second data.

In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer storage medium stores instructions which, when executed on at least one processing device, cause the at least one processing device to at least: store data associated with a manufacturing process used to make a product; scan an encoded image on a physical object to obtain at least one parameter; access, using the at least one parameter, the stored data; and configure or control, based on accessing the stored data, the manufacturing process.

Marking Package with Encoded Image for Scanning

Various embodiments related to marking a product with an encoded image (e.g., placing a QR code on a flat surface of a package that encapsulates an integrated circuit) for scanning to obtain manufacturing parameters are now described below. The generality of the following description is not limited by the various embodiments described above.

For purposes of illustration, some exemplary embodiments are described below in the context of a vehicle manufacturer. However, the methods and systems of the present disclosure are not limited to use in a vehicle manufacturing process. Instead, other embodiments may relate to the manufacture of products for other types of systems (e.g., cloud storage systems, security hardware, etc.).

In one example, the encoded image marked on a product encodes manufacturing data obtained from a database maintained by a manufacturing server that controls, monitors, and/or collects data associated with fabrication of the product using a manufacturing process. In one example, the manufacturing data is associated with configurations for one or more manufacturing machines used in the manufacturing process. In one example, the product is a memory device for a vehicle being manufactured by a vehicle manufacturer. In one example, the manufacturing data includes data regarding processing conditions, device parameters, materials, components, etc., that are used to build the product.

In one example, the encoded images are QR codes. In one example, the manufacturing process is silicon wafer processing for making a memory device for an autonomous automobile.

In one example of the manufacturing process, a vehicle manufacturer specifies the parameters of a flash memory device, prints the specifications out on a paper document (e.g., a PPAP document), and sends it to a supplier of the flash memory device. The supplier does a manual, human review of the paper document, and makes a batch of sample flash memory devices. After the samples are made, and the vehicle manufacturer approves the samples via an approved PSW, then the supplier creates and/or updates the manufacturing data stored at the manufacturing server above to conform to the specifications approved by the vehicle manufacturer.

One problem with existing product manufacture is that marking used on products (e.g., marking of an identification number(s) on a package) is isolated from the specifications above (e.g., PPAP or PSW document) that are approved by a customer for making a product, and/or related communications with the customer (e.g., the vehicle manufacturer above). For example, a supplier will mark a final package, but the mark will not be associated with a PPAP as described above. This can lead to later human error in handling of the product by a distributor and/or the customer.

The above isolated marking approach can lead to errors and/or inefficiencies in product manufacturing and/or logistics during transport. For example, there may be human error when a customer or distributor is manually reading specifications in a paper PPAP and attempting to relate the specifications to a mark on a product in a storage facility. This can cause an error in handling, which can lead to a product that fails to meet specifications of the customer, is logistically mishandled (e.g., shipped to an incorrect location), and/or fails quality control testing (e.g., due to sending an incorrect product from a storage warehouse).

Various embodiments described below provide a technological solution to one or more of the above technical problems. In one embodiment, an integrated circuit has a package with a flat surface on which a QR code is printed or otherwise marked. The QR code encodes parameters about the integrated circuit. In one example, the parameters relate to specifications in a PPAP document associated with fabrication of the integrated circuit.

In one embodiment, the parameters include identifiers and/or other data that can be used to improve compliance management. In one example, an identifier encoded in the QR code can be used to trace a product through a manufacturing process and/or during shipment to a distributor facility and/or to a customer facility. In one example, the distributor facility and the customer facility are a storage warehouse or other building.

In one embodiment, a method includes fabricating, in a manufacturing facility, a physical product (e.g., a memory device in a package) using a manufacturing process, where the physical product is fabricated according to specifications, and the manufacturing process comprises manufacturing steps performed in the manufacturing facility; marking the physical product with an encoded image (e.g., a QR code), where the encoded image encodes parameters that include the specifications; and causing transport of the physical product to a storage facility, where the storage facility comprises a scanner configured to scan the encoded image to obtain the parameters.

In one example, a product can be marked with a QR code that encodes data regarding location values, data used for traceability of the product, and/or data used for analysis of a product. In one example, a mobile phone with an application can be used to scan the QR code to extract encoded information. In one example, the application obtains a link from the QR code that is used to connect with a server that provides an association between the QR code and specifications associated with a PPAP document.

In one embodiment, the QR code includes the unique version identifier. The QR code can be used to look up the identification of samples associated with product that is marked with the QR code. In one example, data regarding samples is referenced by accessing a manufacturing server using data and/or a link obtained from scanning the QR code. In one, a computing device seeking access to such data samples is required to be authenticated by a server prior to the server providing data.

In light of the above, marking a product using an encoded image can provide various advantages. For example, front-end and back-end traceability can be improved. For example, execution of containment using customer containment rules (CCRs) can be performed more rapidly. For example, printed documents referenced during manufacturing and/or transport of a product can more readily be associated with a product by scanning an encoded image on the product and comparing the obtained data to an encoded image on one or more of the printed documents. For example, control of steps in a manufacturing process and/or transport of a product can be improved. For example, the identification, tracking, and/or control of transport technologies associated with the product can be improved.

In one embodiment, manufacturing data to be encoded in a QR code to be affixed to or formed on a product is accessed in a database by sending a query to a server, where the query uses parameters scanned from one or more QR codes printed on paper documents of negotiated manufacturing parameters (e.g., QR codes printed on a production part approval process (PPAP) document and/or an approved part submission warrant (PSW) document, for example as discussed for various embodiments above).

In one embodiment, the QR codes can be scanned by a scanner to obtain parameters that are used to access manufacturing data stored at a manufacturing server (e.g., a server that also maintains materials database 1509 as described above). For example, a parameter obtained from a scanned QR code can be used to query a database to determine parameters for use in a QR code for marking a product.

In one embodiment, an automotive customer purchases a memory product (e.g., a DDR, NAND, eMMC, or SSD device) through a distributor. The customer is identified by a customer part number (CPN) that is placed on and/or associated with the memory product. The CPN provides a link between the supplier (e.g., a supplier part number associated with the memory product) and the customer. The CPN is encoded into a QR code on a PPAP document as the identification code of the product and of the customer's requirements (e.g. shipment location, country, etc.). The CPN is also encoded into a QR code that is placed on a flat surface of the memory product package.

In one example, a PPAP document is prepared and sent to the customer. The shipment of the product is sent to the distributor through the above link to the CPN, which properly directs the logistics of shipping and/or handling the product.

In one example, a customer buys through a distributor, and has approved a PPAP. The distributor ensures that the product is in compliance with the PPAP approved between the supplier and the customer. In one example, the distributor ensures this compliance based on comparing parameters obtained from scanning a mark on a product that has been received in a storage facility to parameters obtained from scanning a PPAP document. In one example, the distributor ensures this compliance based on comparing parameters obtained for scanning the mark on the product to data associated with a PPAP as stored in a database of the distributor. In one example, the data associated with the PPAP has been received by the distributor from a manufacturing server of the supplier.

The marking of a product using an encoded image as described above can provide one or more advantages. For example, one or more of the following advantages can be achieved in various embodiments:

-   -   Conformance of a product (and/or related content) to applicable         legal, customer and internal requirements.     -   Conformity to official requirements from a governing (e.g.,         trade laws) or ruling group either inside or outside of a         supplier.     -   Compliance with legal and customer requirements relating to         product content.     -   Series of actions which, through the use of resources, convert         one or more inputs into one or more outputs that together create         value for a customer.     -   Development, redesign, and deployment of a new or existing         business process to meet a customer's requirements and improve a         product or efficiency of a business process.     -   Traceability of a product to documents.     -   Traceability of materials used to make a product.     -   Improved tracking of a product sent to a customer.     -   Ability to identify and track internal changes for a product         (e.g., technology, materials).     -   More rapid communication to a customer of any changes to a         product.

In one embodiment, a distributor re-packs batches of a product according to a minimum bulk (e.g., in a Type and Reel box the maximum quantity for a reel is 1000 units, and the quantity for a Dray Pack is 980 units). In one example, a customer requests an order of 500 units. The 500 units are repackaged in another box (without a supplier's label). By using marking of product with a QR code as described herein, the distributor is able to ensure compliance of a product with a PPAP, including shipments made through the distributor.

FIG. 22 shows an example computing system for marking a physical product 2215 with an encoded image 2217 after manufacturing the product in a manufacturing facility 2211, according to one embodiment. Physical product 2215 is fabricated according to specifications using various manufacturing steps performed in manufacturing facility 2211. Physical product 2215 is marked with encoded image 2217 that encodes parameters that include the specifications. After manufacture, physical product 2215 is transported to a storage facility. In one example, the storage facility is a distribution facility having distribution facility server 130 or a customer facility having customer facility server 132.

After receiving physical product 2215 at the storage facility, a scanner at the storage facility is used to scan encoded image 2217 to obtain parameters. In one example, the parameters are specifications used to configure manufacturing machine 2213 for fabrication of physical product 2215. In one example, the parameters are data associated with logistics and/or handling of physical product 2215. In one example, these logistics include movement of the physical product 2215 through the storage facility and/or shipment from the storage facility to a customer location.

In one embodiment, physical product 2215 is marked with encoded image 2217 using a laser 2225. For example, the laser 2225 can be configured to perform laser scribing, engraving, or marking.

In one embodiment, the specifications encoded in encoded image 2217 are included in printed document 2201. An encoded image 2203 is printed on or otherwise attached to printed document 2201. In one example, encoded image 2203 includes at least a portion of the specifications encoded in encoded image 2217.

In one embodiment, scanner 2204 is used to obtain parameters from encoded image 2203. Computing device 2205 controls scanner 2204. Scanner 2204 and/or a different scanner are used to scan encoded image 2217 to obtain parameters. Computing device 2205 compares parameters obtained from encoded images 2203 and 2217. Based on this comparison, computing device 2205 determines whether physical product 2215 corresponds to printed document 2201. In response to determining such correspondence, computing device 2205 performs an action. In one example, the action is sending a communication to distribution facility server 130 and/or customer facility 132 using communication network 121. In one example, the communication contains data such as described for communications in various embodiments above. Other actions may be performed as described for various embodiments above.

In one embodiment, printed document 2201 is a PPAP document corresponding to physical product 2215. In one example, data obtained from scanning of encoded image 2203 is used to configure manufacturing machine 2213. In one example, the obtained data is stored in manufacturing database 2209.

In one embodiment, sensors 2221 and camera 2223 collect data associated with fabrication of physical product 2215 by manufacturing machine 2213. Some or all of this manufacturing data is stored in manufacturing database 2209 by manufacturing server 2207. In one embodiment, encoded image 2217 is generated by manufacturing server 2207 to include at least a portion of the manufacturing data stored in database 2209. In one embodiment, manufacturing server 2207 uses one or more customer rules from the database 1313 to include in the generated encoded image 2217.

FIG. 23 shows a method for marking a product (e.g., a package including an integrated circuit) with an encoded image (e.g., a QR code) for scanning (e.g., when the product is received at a customer facility) to obtain manufacturing parameters, according to one embodiment. For example, the method of FIG. 23 can be implemented in the system of FIGS. 1, 6, 7, 13, 15, 17, 19, and 22.

The method of FIG. 23 can be performed by processing logic that can include hardware (e.g., processing device, circuitry, dedicated logic, programmable logic, microcode, hardware of a device, integrated circuit, etc.), software (e.g., instructions run or executed on a processing device), or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the method of FIG. 23 is performed at least in part by one or more processors of supplier server 6150 of FIG. 6, computing device 1521 of FIG. 15, server 1707 of FIG. 17, computing device 1905 and/or manufacturing server 1907 of FIG. 19, or manufacturing server 2207 of FIG. 22. In one embodiment, supplier server 6150, computing device 1521, computing device 1905, manufacturing server 1907, or manufacturing server 2207 is implemented using the processors and memory of FIG. 8 or 9.

Although shown in a particular sequence or order, unless otherwise specified, the order of the processes can be modified. Thus, the illustrated embodiments should be understood only as examples, and the illustrated processes can be performed in a different order, and some processes can be performed in parallel. Additionally, one or more processes can be omitted in various embodiments. Thus, not all processes are required in every embodiment. Other process flows are possible.

At block 2301, a physical product is fabricated using a manufacturing process. The physical product is fabricated according to specifications, and the manufacturing process includes manufacturing steps performed in a manufacturing facility. In one example, the physical product is physical product 2215. In one example, the manufacturing facility is manufacturing facility 2211.

At block 2303, the physical product is marked with an encoded image. The encoded image encodes parameters that include the specifications. In one example, the encoded image is encoded image 2217 formed by laser 2225.

At block 2305, the physical product is transported to a storage facility. The storage facility includes a scanner to scan the encoded image to obtain parameters. In one example, the storage facility is a distribution facility or a customer facility. In one example, the parameters obtained from this scanning include a customer rule from customer rules database 1313. In one example, the parameters obtained include a specification included in printed document 2201. In one example, the parameters obtained include data obtained from scanning encoded image 2203.

In one embodiment, a method comprises: fabricating, in a manufacturing facility (e.g., manufacturing facility 2211), a physical product (e.g., physical product 2215) using a manufacturing process, wherein the physical product is fabricated according to specifications, and the manufacturing process comprises manufacturing steps performed in the manufacturing facility; marking the physical product with an encoded image (e.g., encoded image 2217), wherein the encoded image encodes parameters that include the specifications; and causing transport of the physical product to a storage facility, wherein the storage facility comprises a scanner configured to scan the encoded image to obtain the parameters.

In one embodiment, the encoded image is a first encoded image, the parameters are first parameters, and the storage facility is configured to: scan a second encoded image (e.g., encoded image 2203) on a printed document (e.g., printed document 2201) to obtain second parameters; compare, by a computing device (e.g., computing device 2205, or manufacturing server 2207), the first parameters and the second parameters; based on comparing the first parameters and the second parameters, determine, by the computing device, whether the physical product corresponds to the printed document; and in response to determining that the physical product corresponds to the printed document, perform an action.

In one embodiment, the physical product is a sample, the action is sending a communication to a computing device of the manufacturing facility, and the communication includes an updated specification for a new physical product, the method further comprising, in response to receiving the communication, fabricating the new physical product according to the updated specification.

In one embodiment, the printed document is: a production part approval process (PPAP) document that includes the specifications; a part submission warrant (PSW) document that indicates an approval of the specifications; or a product change notification (PCN) document that updates the specifications.

In one embodiment, the storage facility is configured to: prior to fabrication of the physical product, send a communication including customer containment rules (CCRs) over a network to a computing device at the manufacturing facility; and compare the CCRs to the parameters obtained from scanning the encoded image.

In one embodiment, the parameters further include at least one of: an identifier for a material used in the manufacturing process; an identifier for the storage facility; an identifier that identifies the physical product; a measurement associated with the manufacturing process; a size of a component of the physical product; a size of a manufacturing device associated with one of the manufacturing steps; a link to a server that stores data associated with the manufacturing process, wherein the stored data comprises drawings, figures, graphics, or diagrams regarding the physical product; a link to a server that stores data associated with the manufacturing process for access by a computing device using the link, wherein access to the stored data requires authentication of the computing device; a location of the storage facility; or a location of the manufacturing facility.

In one embodiment, the parameters further include one or more processing, product, or test characteristics observed during fabrication of the physical product.

In one embodiment, marking the physical product comprises at least one of: marking, using a laser (e.g., laser 2225), the encoded image on the physical product; engraving the encoded image on the physical product; printing the encoded image on the physical product; or printing a label that includes the encoded image, and attaching the label to the physical product or to a container that holds the physical product.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises affixing the encoded image to a printed document that is transported with the product to the storage facility.

In one embodiment, the physical product is a package including an integrated circuit, the package has a substantially flat surface, the encoded image is a two-dimensional barcode, and marking the physical product comprises laser marking to form the encoded image on the flat surface.

In one embodiment, the storage facility is a distribution facility, the parameters further include data regarding at least one of scheduling or logistics for transport of the product, and a computing device at the distribution facility is configured to cause transport of the physical product to a customer facility based on the parameters obtained by scanning the encoded image.

In one embodiment, the parameters further include a link to a server that stores data associated with the physical product, and the storage facility is configured to access the stored data via a computing device using the link.

In one embodiment, the physical product is a sample, one of the manufacturing steps uses a manufacturing machine, and the stored data includes data regarding characteristics associated with fabrication of the sample using the manufacturing machine.

In one embodiment, the parameters further include at least one of: country of encapsulation, country of diffusion, a device number, an identifier of a process technology, a package type, a die revision, a date of fabrication, or a speed.

In one embodiment, a system comprises: a database (e.g., manufacturing database 2209) configured to store specifications for fabricating a physical product using a manufacturing process; a manufacturing machine (e.g., manufacturing machine 2213) configured to fabricate the physical product; a laser (e.g., laser 2225) configured to mark the physical product with a two-dimensional barcode; at least one processing device; and memory containing instructions configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: control fabrication of the physical product, including controlling the manufacturing machine according to the specifications; mark, using the laser, the physical product with the two-dimensional barcode, wherein the barcode encodes the specifications; and cause transport of the physical product to a storage facility, wherein the storage facility comprises a scanner configured to scan the two-dimensional barcode to obtain the specifications.

In one embodiment, the barcode is a first barcode (e.g., encoded image 2217), and the instructions are further configured to instruct the at least one processing device to scan a second barcode (e.g., encoded image 2203) that encodes control data and at least a portion of the specifications, wherein controlling the manufacturing machine comprises configuring the manufacturing machine based on the control data.

In one embodiment, the first barcode further encodes first data associated with ordering one or more manufacturing steps of the manufacturing process, and the second bar code further encodes the first data.

In one embodiment, the barcode is a first barcode, and the instructions are further configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: scan a second two-dimensional barcode on a printed document to obtain parameters; compare, by a computing device, the specifications to the parameters; based on comparing the specifications to the parameters, determine, by the computing device, whether the physical product corresponds to the printed document; and in response to determining that the physical product corresponds to the printed document, perform an action.

In one embodiment, the action is configuring an operation of the manufacturing machine.

In one embodiment, a non-transitory computer storage medium stores instructions which, when executed on at least one processing device, cause the at least one processing device to at least: fabricate, in a manufacturing facility, a physical product using a manufacturing process, wherein the physical product is fabricated according to specifications; mark the physical product with an encoded image, wherein the encoded image encodes the specifications; and cause transport of the physical product to a storage facility, wherein the storage facility comprises a scanner configured to scan the encoded image to obtain the specifications.

Closing

The disclosure includes various devices which perform the methods and implement the systems described above, including data processing systems which perform these methods, and computer readable media containing instructions which when executed on data processing systems cause the systems to perform these methods.

The description and drawings are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding. However, in certain instances, well-known or conventional details are not described in order to avoid obscuring the description. References to one or an embodiment in the present disclosure are not necessarily references to the same embodiment; and, such references mean at least one.

Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirements for some embodiments but not other embodiments.

As used herein, “coupled to” generally refers to a connection between components, which can be an indirect communicative connection or direct communicative connection (e.g., without intervening components), whether wired or wireless, including connections such as electrical, optical, magnetic, etc.

In this description, various functions and operations may be described as being performed by or caused by software code to simplify description. However, those skilled in the art will recognize what is meant by such expressions is that the functions result from execution of the code by one or more processors, such as a microprocessor, Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), graphics processor, and/or a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). Alternatively, or in combination, the functions and operations can be implemented using special purpose circuitry (e.g., logic circuitry), with or without software instructions. Embodiments can be implemented using hardwired circuitry without software instructions, or in combination with software instructions. Thus, the techniques are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software, nor to any particular source for the instructions executed by a computing device.

While some embodiments can be implemented in fully functioning computers and computer systems, various embodiments are capable of being distributed as a computing product in a variety of forms and are capable of being applied regardless of the particular type of machine or computer-readable media used to actually effect the distribution.

At least some aspects disclosed can be embodied, at least in part, in software. That is, the techniques may be carried out in a computing device or other system in response to its processor, such as a microprocessor, executing sequences of instructions contained in a memory, such as ROM, volatile RAM, non-volatile memory, cache or a remote storage device.

Routines executed to implement the embodiments may be implemented as part of an operating system, middleware, service delivery platform, SDK (Software Development Kit) component, web services, or other specific application, component, program, object, module or sequence of instructions referred to as “computer programs.” Invocation interfaces to these routines can be exposed to a software development community as an API (Application Programming Interface). The computer programs typically comprise one or more instructions set at various times in various memory and storage devices in a computer, and that, when read and executed by one or more processors in a computer, cause the computer to perform operations necessary to execute elements involving the various aspects.

A machine readable medium can be used to store software and data which when executed by a computing device causes the device to perform various methods. The executable software and data may be stored in various places including, for example, ROM, volatile RAM, non-volatile memory and/or cache. Portions of this software and/or data may be stored in any one of these storage devices. Further, the data and instructions can be obtained from centralized servers or peer to peer networks. Different portions of the data and instructions can be obtained from different centralized servers and/or peer to peer networks at different times and in different communication sessions or in a same communication session. The data and instructions can be obtained in entirety prior to the execution of the applications. Alternatively, portions of the data and instructions can be obtained dynamically, just in time, when needed for execution. Thus, it is not required that the data and instructions be on a machine readable medium in entirety at a particular instance of time.

Examples of computer-readable media include but are not limited to recordable and non-recordable type media such as volatile and non-volatile memory devices, read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), flash memory devices, solid-state drive storage media, removable disks, magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media (e.g., Compact Disk Read-Only Memory (CD ROMs), Digital Versatile Disks (DVDs), etc.), among others. The computer-readable media may store the instructions.

In general, a tangible or non-transitory machine readable medium includes any mechanism that provides (e.g., stores) information in a form accessible by a machine (e.g., a computer, mobile device, network device, personal digital assistant, manufacturing tool, any device with a set of one or more processors, etc.).

In various embodiments, hardwired circuitry may be used in combination with software instructions to implement the techniques. Thus, the techniques are neither limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software nor to any particular source for the instructions executed by a computing device.

Although some of the drawings illustrate a number of operations in a particular order, operations which are not order dependent may be reordered and other operations may be combined or broken out. While some reordering or other groupings are specifically mentioned, others will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art and so do not present an exhaustive list of alternatives. Moreover, it should be recognized that the stages could be implemented in hardware, firmware, software or any combination thereof.

In the foregoing specification, the disclosure has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof. It will be evident that various modifications may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope as set forth in the following claims. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative sense rather than a restrictive sense.

Various embodiments set forth herein can be implemented using a wide variety of different types of computing devices. As used herein, examples of a “computing device” include, but are not limited to, a server, a centralized computing platform, a system of multiple computing processors and/or components, a mobile device, a user terminal, a vehicle, a personal communications device, a wearable digital device, an electronic kiosk, a general purpose computer, an electronic document reader, a tablet, a laptop computer, a smartphone, a digital camera, a residential domestic appliance, a television, or a digital music player. Additional examples of computing devices include devices that are part of what is called “the internet of things” (IOT). Such “things” may have occasional interactions with their owners or administrators, who may monitor the things or modify settings on these things. In some cases, such owners or administrators play the role of users with respect to the “thing” devices. In some examples, the primary mobile device (e.g., an Apple iPhone) of a user may be an administrator server with respect to a paired “thing” device that is worn by the user (e.g., an Apple watch).

In some embodiments, the computing device can be a host system, which is implemented, for example, as a desktop computer, laptop computer, network server, mobile device, or other computing device that includes a memory and a processing device. The host system can include or be coupled to a memory sub-system so that the host system can read data from or write data to the memory sub-system. The host system can be coupled to the memory sub-system via a physical host interface.

Examples of a physical host interface include, but are not limited to, a serial advanced technology attachment (SATA) interface, a peripheral component interconnect express (PCIe) interface, universal serial bus (USB) interface, Fibre Channel, Serial Attached SCSI (SAS), a double data rate (DDR) memory bus, etc. The physical host interface can be used to transmit data between the host system and the memory sub-system. The host system can further utilize an NVM Express (NVMe) interface to access memory components of the memory sub-system when the memory sub-system is coupled with the host system by the PCIe interface. The physical host interface can provide an interface for passing control, address, data, and other signals between the memory sub-system and the host system. In general, the host system can access multiple memory sub-systems via a same communication connection, multiple separate communication connections, and/or a combination of communication connections.

In one embodiment, the host system includes a processing device and a controller. The processing device of the host system can be, for example, a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit, a central processing unit (CPU), an FPGA, a processing core of a processor, an execution unit, etc. In one example, the processing device can be a single package that combines an FPGA and a microprocessor, in which the microprocessor does most of the processing, but passes off certain predetermined, specific tasks to an FPGA block. In one example, the processing device is a soft microprocessor (also sometimes called softcore microprocessor or a soft processor), which is a microprocessor core implemented using logic synthesis. The soft microprocessor can be implemented via different semiconductor devices containing programmable logic (e.g., ASIC, FPGA, or CPLD).

In some examples, the controller is a memory controller, a memory management unit, and/or an initiator. In one example, the controller controls the communications over a bus coupled between the host system and the memory sub-system.

In general, the controller can send commands or requests to the memory sub-system for desired access to the memory components. The controller can further include interface circuitry to communicate with the memory sub-system. The interface circuitry can convert responses received from the memory sub-system into information for the host system. The controller of the host system can communicate with the controller of the memory sub-system to perform operations such as reading data, writing data, or erasing data at the memory components and other such operations.

In some instances, a controller can be integrated within the same package as the processing device. In other instances, the controller is separate from the package of the processing device. The controller and/or the processing device can include hardware such as one or more integrated circuits and/or discrete components, a buffer memory, a cache memory, or a combination thereof. The controller and/or the processing device can be a microcontroller, special purpose logic circuitry (e.g., a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.), or another suitable processor.

The memory components can include any combination of the different types of non-volatile memory components and/or volatile memory components. An example of non-volatile memory components includes a negative-and (NAND) type flash memory. Each of the memory components can include one or more arrays of memory cells such as single level cells (SLCs) or multi-level cells (MLCs) (e.g., triple level cells (TLCs) or quad-level cells (QLCs)). In some embodiments, a particular memory component can include both an SLC portion and a MLC portion of memory cells. Each of the memory cells can store one or more bits of data (e.g., data blocks) used by the host system. Although non-volatile memory components such as NAND type flash memory are described, the memory components can be based on any other type of memory such as a volatile memory.

In some embodiments, the memory components can be, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), phase change memory (PCM), magneto random access memory (MRAM), Spin Transfer Torque (STT)-MRAM, ferroelectric random-access memory (FeTRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), conductive bridging RAM (CBRAM), resistive random access memory (RRAM), oxide based RRAM (OxRAM), negative-or (NOR) flash memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), nanowire-based non-volatile memory, memory that incorporates memristor technology, and a cross-point array of non-volatile memory cells. A cross-point array of non-volatile memory can perform bit storage based on a change of bulk resistance, in conjunction with a stackable cross-gridded data access array. Additionally, in contrast to many flash-based memories, cross-point non-volatile memory can perform a write in-place operation, where a non-volatile memory cell can be programmed without the non-volatile memory cell being previously erased. Furthermore, the memory cells of the memory components can be grouped as memory pages or data blocks that can refer to a unit of the memory component used to store data.

The controller of the memory sub-system can communicate with the memory components to perform operations such as reading data, writing data, or erasing data at the memory components and other such operations (e.g., in response to commands scheduled on a command bus by a controller). A controller can include a processing device (processor) configured to execute instructions stored in local memory. The local memory of the controller can include an embedded memory configured to store instructions for performing various processes, operations, logic flows, and routines that control operation of the memory sub-system, including handling communications between the memory sub-system and the host system. In some embodiments, the local memory can include memory registers storing memory pointers, fetched data, etc. The local memory can also include read-only memory (ROM) for storing micro-code. While the example memory sub-system includes the controller, in another embodiment of the present disclosure, a memory sub-system may not include a controller, and can instead rely upon external control (e.g., provided by an external host, or by a processor or controller separate from the memory sub-system).

In general, the controller can receive commands or operations from the host system and can convert the commands or operations into instructions or appropriate commands to achieve the desired access to the memory components. The controller can be responsible for other operations such as wear leveling operations, garbage collection operations, error detection and error-correcting code (ECC) operations, encryption operations, caching operations, and address translations between a logical block address and a physical block address that are associated with the memory components. The controller can further include host interface circuitry to communicate with the host system via the physical host interface. The host interface circuitry can convert the commands received from the host system into command instructions to access the memory components as well as convert responses associated with the memory components into information for the host system.

The memory sub-system can also include additional circuitry or components that are not illustrated. In some embodiments, the memory sub-system can include a cache or buffer (e.g., DRAM or SRAM) and address circuitry (e.g., a row decoder and a column decoder) that can receive an address from the controller and decode the address to access the memory components. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising: fabricating, in a manufacturing facility, a physical product using a manufacturing process, wherein the physical product is fabricated according to specifications, and the manufacturing process comprises manufacturing steps performed in the manufacturing facility; marking the physical product with an encoded image, wherein the encoded image encodes parameters that include the specifications; and causing transport of the physical product to a storage facility, wherein the storage facility comprises a scanner configured to scan the encoded image to obtain the parameters.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the encoded image is a first encoded image, the parameters are first parameters, and the storage facility is configured to: scan a second encoded image on a printed document to obtain second parameters; compare, by a computing device, the first parameters and the second parameters; based on comparing the first parameters and the second parameters, determine, by the computing device, whether the physical product corresponds to the printed document; and in response to determining that the physical product corresponds to the printed document, perform an action.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the physical product is a sample, the action is sending a communication to a computing device of the manufacturing facility, and the communication includes an updated specification for a new physical product, the method further comprising, in response to receiving the communication, fabricating the new physical product according to the updated specification.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the printed document is: a production part approval process (PPAP) document that includes the specifications; a part submission warrant (PSW) document that indicates an approval of the specifications; or a product change notification (PCN) document that updates the specifications.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the storage facility is configured to: prior to fabrication of the physical product, send a communication including customer containment rules (CCRs) over a network to a computing device at the manufacturing facility; and compare the CCRs to the parameters obtained from scanning the encoded image.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the parameters further include at least one of: an identifier for a material used in the manufacturing process; an identifier for the storage facility; an identifier that identifies the physical product; a measurement associated with the manufacturing process; a size of a component of the physical product; a size of a manufacturing device associated with one of the manufacturing steps; a link to a server that stores data associated with the manufacturing process, wherein the stored data comprises drawings, figures, graphics, or diagrams regarding the physical product; a link to a server that stores data associated with the manufacturing process for access by a computing device using the link, wherein access to the stored data requires authentication of the computing device; a location of the storage facility; or a location of the manufacturing facility.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the parameters further include one or more processing, product, or test characteristics observed during fabrication of the physical product.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein marking the physical product comprises at least one of: marking, using a laser, the encoded image on the physical product; engraving the encoded image on the physical product; printing the encoded image on the physical product; or printing a label that includes the encoded image, and attaching the label to the physical product or to a container that holds the physical product.
 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising affixing the encoded image to a printed document that is transported with the product to the storage facility.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the physical product is a package including an integrated circuit, the package has a substantially flat surface, the encoded image is a two-dimensional barcode, and marking the physical product comprises laser marking to form the encoded image on the flat surface.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the storage facility is a distribution facility, the parameters further include data regarding at least one of scheduling or logistics for transport of the product, and a computing device at the distribution facility is configured to cause transport of the physical product to a customer facility based on the parameters obtained by scanning the encoded image.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the parameters further include a link to a server that stores data associated with the physical product, and the storage facility is configured to access the stored data via a computing device using the link.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the physical product is a sample, one of the manufacturing steps uses a manufacturing machine, and the stored data includes data regarding characteristics associated with fabrication of the sample using the manufacturing machine.
 14. The method of claim 1, wherein the parameters further include at least one of: country of encapsulation, country of diffusion, a device number, an identifier of a process technology, a package type, a die revision, a date of fabrication, or a speed.
 15. A system comprising: a database configured to store specifications for fabricating a physical product using a manufacturing process; a manufacturing machine configured to fabricate the physical product; a laser configured to mark the physical product with a two-dimensional barcode; at least one processing device; and memory containing instructions configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: control fabrication of the physical product, including controlling the manufacturing machine according to the specifications; mark, using the laser, the physical product with the two-dimensional barcode, wherein the barcode encodes the specifications; and cause transport of the physical product to a storage facility, wherein the storage facility comprises a scanner configured to scan the two-dimensional barcode to obtain the specifications.
 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the barcode is a first barcode, and the instructions are further configured to instruct the at least one processing device to scan a second barcode that encodes control data and at least a portion of the specifications, wherein controlling the manufacturing machine comprises configuring the manufacturing machine based on the control data.
 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the first barcode further encodes first data associated with ordering one or more manufacturing steps of the manufacturing process, and the second bar code further encodes the first data.
 18. The system of claim 15, wherein the barcode is a first barcode, and the instructions are further configured to instruct the at least one processing device to: scan a second two-dimensional barcode on a printed document to obtain parameters; compare, by a computing device, the specifications to the parameters; based on comparing the specifications to the parameters, determine, by the computing device, whether the physical product corresponds to the printed document; and in response to determining that the physical product corresponds to the printed document, perform an action.
 19. The system of claim 18, wherein the action is configuring an operation of the manufacturing machine.
 20. A non-transitory computer storage medium storing instructions which, when executed on at least one processing device, cause the at least one processing device to at least: fabricate, in a manufacturing facility, a physical product using a manufacturing process, wherein the physical product is fabricated according to specifications; mark the physical product with an encoded image, wherein the encoded image encodes the specifications; and cause transport of the physical product to a storage facility, wherein the storage facility comprises a scanner configured to scan the encoded image to obtain the specifications. 